*3.3.1.3 Muscles*

*Essentials in Hip and Ankle*

*3.3.1 Superficial landmarks of the hip*

edge of hip region anatomy (**Figure 5**).

*3.3.1.1 The anterior-superior iliac spine (ASIS)*

patient.

the following.

vessel injuries [13].

*3.3.1.2 Great trochanter (GT)*

Recently, several studies have shown that the prominence of the anterior-inferior iliac spine (AIIS) could also contribute to a conflict with the cervico-cephalic junction even if the hip anatomy is normal. This subspine impingement can simu-

Given the proximity of vasculo-nervous elements, identification of a so-called safe zone is essential in such a minimally invasive surgery requiring a good knowl-

The identification of certain structures will depend on the degree of obesity of the

The superficial landmarks conventionally used in hip arthroscopy for an FAI are

The hip being in neutral rotation, a vertical line joining the anterior-superficial iliac spine and the middle of the base of the patella forms the medial limit of the "safe zone." Beyond this line there is a higher risk of femoral nerve and femoral

Identification of the tip of the GT and its anterior and posterior edges is essential and easily felt. The anterolateral portal (AL) and the posterolateral portal (PL) are located 1 cm proximal and anterior or posterior to the tip of the GT, respectively. The

*Landmarks and main portal used in hip arthroscopy: PL, posterolateral portal; AL, anterolateral portal; AP,* 

*anterior portal; FA, common femoral artery; FN, femoral nerve.*

late FAI and thus represents a differential diagnosis [11, 12].

**3.3 Arthroscopic approach for FAI and anatomy of the hip**

**28**

**Figure 5.**

The muscles crossed during hip arthroscopy for a FAI are [14, 15]:

