Where should all hip arthroscopy portals be made to avoid damage to critical structures?

The correct answer focuses on the importance of portal placement in hip arthroscopy to minimize risk to critical structures. When portals are made lateral to the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), they are positioned in a way that allows for appropriate access to the hip joint while maintaining safety from neurovascular structures. This location is strategically chosen because it provides a clear working area and avoids any potential injury to the femoral nerve and important blood vessels that are situated more medial to the ASIS.

By ensuring that portals are lateral to the ASIS, surgeons can perform procedures within the hip joint effectively without compromising surrounding anatomy, especially those critical structures that could lead to complications if damaged. Other locations, such as medial to the pubic tubercle or posterior to the greater trochanter, pose higher risks of injuring vessels or nerves due to their proximity to these structures. Similarly, placing portals distal to the ischial tuberosity may also introduce unnecessary risks associated with navigating around the lower limb's neurovascular supply.

Thus, the lateral placement to the ASIS is the optimal choice for preventing damage and enabling successful outcomes in hip arthroscopy.