Is the Arthroscopic Transillumination Test Effective in Localizing the Superficial Peroneal Nerve?

Purpose To evaluate the transillumination test in showing the position of the superficial peroneal nerve (SPN) to quantify the effectiveness of this test. Methods Prospectively, we selected 53 ankle arthroscopy patients (71 patients were excluded because of the invisible SPN). Demographic data including gender, weight, height, and body mass index were recorded. The intraoperative transillumination test was performed during portal establishment and recorded as positive if the SPN was visible via transillumination. The data were analyzed as mean, standard deviation, and percentage. Wilson's method was used as 95% confidence interval for proportion of the positive transillumination test. Results The intraoperative transillumination test was positive in 0 of 53 patients (0%) with 95% confidence interval ranging from 0% to 6.7%. Conclusions The transillumination test has no value for showing the SPN. Level of Evidence Level II, prospective diagnostic study.