Hanger-lifting procedure in knee arthroscopy.
We propose a unique arthroscopic technique, the "hanger-lifting procedure." Unlike conventional arthroscopy, the space in which the arthroscope is placed is not a joint space filled with water but a subcutaneous space filled with air. The space is kept lifted by a semi-loop-shaped hanger and a retraction system by use of a wire. In general, arthroscopes are unable to be applied outside the joint because of the lack of a cavity. However, this method can provide extra-articular visualization of the knee in addition to standard intra-articular visualization. This approach is useful for lateral release of the knee extensor and bipartite patellae, allowing direct vision from both outside and inside the joint. One possible complication is subcutaneous effusion or interstitial edema. Compressive dressings should be applied to prevent subcutaneous effusion after surgery. However, the combination of conventional arthroscopy by use of saline solution and the hanger-lifting technique by use of air arthroscopy can provide an excellent view inside and outside the joint. This technique may continue to evolve, and although some points in the technique can be improved, this method is useful in joint surgeries.
Maeno
Shinichi
S
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mita Hospital of International University of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan. maenoshin@tcncatv.ne.jp
Hashimoto
Daijo
D
Otani
Toshiro
T
Masumoto
Ko
K
Matsumoto
Hideo
H
Enomoto
Hiroyuki
H
Niki
Yasuo
Y
Yuzawa
Itsuki
I
Fukui
Yasuyuki
Y
Ishikawa
Masayuki
M
Fujita
Nobuyuki
N
Okubo
Masashi
M
D016118:Anterior Cruciate Ligament / Q000601:surgery; D001182:Arthroscopy / Q000379:methods*; D001826:Body Fluids / Q000378:metabolism; D004487:Edema / Q000517:prevention & control; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D055805:Moving and Lifting Patients / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D016119:Posterior Cruciate Ligament / Q000601:surgery; D013525:Surgical Instruments; D016474:Weight-Bearing