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. 2024 Jan;30(1):50-56.
doi: 10.1016/j.fas.2023.09.005. Epub 2023 Sep 14.

Tourniquet use in ankle arthroscopy: A systematic review

B Lau  1 , V Kothari  2 , S Trowbridge  3 , T L Lewis  3 , R Ray  3
Affiliations

Tourniquet use in ankle arthroscopy: A systematic review

B Lau et al. Foot Ankle Surg. 2024 Jan.

Abstract

Background: Ankle arthroscopy is commonly performed using a thigh tourniquet and is thought to improve visibility and reduce operative time. However, the current evidence is unclear as to whether the use of a tourniquet provides these benefits. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is any clinical benefit of using a tourniquet in ankle arthroscopy.

Methods: A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines was undertaken. All clinical studies published in Medline, Embase, PubMed and the Cochrane Library Database from inception until January 2023 reporting on the use of a tourniquet in ankle arthroscopy were included.

Results: 180 studies were identified of which 3 (164 patients) met the inclusion criteria. All studies showed no statistically significant difference in mean surgical time and complication rate between the tourniquet and non-tourniquet groups. Overall, the quality of the evidence was moderate to poor without data in favour or against the routine use of tourniquets in ankle arthroscopy.

Conclusion: The current literature suggests that there are no significant differences in mean surgical time and complication rate between the tourniquet and non-tourniquet groups.

Keywords: ATFL; Ankle; Arthrodesis; Arthroscopy; Foot; Instability; Ligament; Orthopaedics; Osteochondral lesion; Systematic review; Tourniquet.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of Competing Interest The authors whose names are listed above certify that they have NO affiliations with or involvement in any organization or entity with any financial interest (such as honoraria; educational grants; participation in speakers’ bureaus; membership, employment, consultancies, stock ownership, or other equity interest; and expert testimony or patent-licensing arrangements), or non-financial interest (such as personal or professional relationships, affiliations, knowledge or beliefs) in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript.

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