Editorial Commentary: Safety in Anteromedial Elbow Portal Placement? Go North!

Abstract

Since iatrogenic injury to surrounding structures is more likely in the elbow than in the other major joints, many studies have examined the relationship of elbow arthroscopy portals to the at-risk anatomy. In accessing the anterior compartment of the elbow from the medial side, the brachial artery and median, ulnar, and medial antebrachial cutaneous nerves are at risk. Factors that improve the safety of this approach include the use of a proximal versus distal anteromedial portal, a distended versus and nondistended joint, and a flexed versus extended elbow position, all of which result in an approximate margin of safety of 2 cm from the deep at-risk structures.