Zone 2 flexor hallucis longus tendoscopy: a cadaveric study.
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this study was to verify the safety and efficacy of zone 2 flexor hallucis longus tendoscopy with the patient in the prone position.


METHODS
The technique was performed in 12 cadaver feet (6 pairs). The endoscopic findings were compared to an anatomic dissection. The locations of the posteromedial and plantar portals were studied. The relationship between the medial plantar nerve and the tract of FHL tendoscopy was also studied.


RESULTS
The average distance of the posteromedial portal above the medial malleolar tip was 10.3 mm. The average distance between the posteromedial portal and the posterior tibial nerve was 9.9 mm. The average distance between the plantar portal and the intermalleolar line was 41.5 mm. The average distance between the rod simulating the tenoscope and the nerve was 4.8 mm. The nerve was medial to the rod in 4 specimens and lateral to the rod in 8 specimens.


CONCLUSIONS
Zone 2 flexor hallucis longus tendoscopy was a feasible approach to the deep portion of the flexor hallucis longus tendon in this cadaveric study. There is potential risk of damage to the medial plantar nerve.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings can help guide a surgeon who is considering trying this clinically.
North District Hospital, Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 9 Po Kin Road, Sheung Shui, Hong Kong, China. luithderek@yahoo.co.uk
Tun Hing
TH
Lui
Kwok Bill
KB
Chan
Lap Ki
LK
Chan
D020679:Arthroscopes; D001182:Arthroscopy / Q000379:methods*; D002102:Cadaver; D004210:Dissection; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005528:Foot / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D011403:Pronation; D013710:Tendons / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery*