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Diniz P, Quental C, Pereira H, Lopes R, Kerkhoffs GMMJ, Ferreira FC, Folgado J. Progression of partial to complete ruptures of the Achilles tendon during rehabilitation: A study using a finite element model. J Orthop Res 2024; 42:1670-1681. [PMID: 38472691 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Substantial research on complete Achilles tendon ruptures is available, but guidance on partial ruptures is comparatively sparse. Conservative management is considered acceptable in partial tendon ruptures affecting less than 50% of the tendon's width, but supporting experimental evidence is currently lacking. Using a previously validated finite element model of the Achilles tendon, this study aimed to assess whether loading conditions simulating an early functional rehabilitation protocol could elicit progression to a complete rupture in partial ruptures of varying severity. In silico tendon rupture simulations were performed to locate the most likely rupture site for least, moderate, and extreme subtendon twist configurations. These three models were split at the corresponding rupture site and two sets of partial ruptures were created for each, starting from the medial and lateral sides, and ranging from 10% to 50% loss of continuity. Simulations were conducted with material parameters from healthy and tendinopathic tendons. Partial ruptures were considered to progress if the volume of elements showing a maximum principal strain above 10% exceeded 3 mm3. To assess whether the tendinopathic tendons typical geometric characteristics could compensate for the inferior material properties found in tendinopathy, an additional model with increased cross-sectional area in the free tendon region was developed. Progression to complete ruptures occurred even with less than a 50% loss of continuity, regardless of subtendon twisting, and material parameters. The tendinopathic tendon model with increased cross-sectional area showed similar results. These findings suggest the current criteria for surgical treatment of partial ruptures should be reconsidered. Statement of clinical significance: The clinical significance and most appropriate treatment of partial ruptures of the Achilles tendon is unclear. Despite the widespread use of the "50% rule" in treatment decisions of partial tendon ruptures, experimental evidence supporting it is missing. The present study provides new data, from a validated aponeurotic and free Achilles tendon finite element model, showing that partial ruptures may progress to complete ruptures under loading conditions elicited from functional rehabilitation protocols, even for partial ruptures affecting less than 50% of the tendon's width. Under these novel findings, the current criteria for surgical treatment of partial ruptures should be reconsidered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Diniz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital de Sant'Ana, Parede, Portugal
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB - Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Fisiogaspar, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carlos Quental
- IDMEC, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Hélder Pereira
- Orthopaedic Department, Centro Hospitalar Póvoa de Varzim, Vila do Conde, Portugal
- Ripoll y De Prado Sports Clinic: FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Murcia-Madrid, Spain
- University of Minho ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo Lopes
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital de Sant'Ana, Parede, Portugal
| | - Gino M M J Kerkhoffs
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Academic Center for Evidence Based Sports Medicine (ACES), Amsterdam Collaboration for Health and Safety in Sports (ACHSS), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frederico C Ferreira
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB - Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Folgado
- IDMEC, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Hong CC, Schaarup SO, Calder J. Differential elongation of the gastrocnemius after Achilles tendon rupture: a novel technique of selective shortening to treat push-off weakness with case series and literature review. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2023; 31:6046-6051. [PMID: 37837575 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-023-07619-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Differential elongation of the gastrocnemius after Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) may compromise the ability of athletes to return to competition. Recognition of this differential elongation of the gastrocnemius relative to the soleus is vital to treat patients with weakness in push-off. This paper describes a novel technique performed for selective shortening of the gastrocnemius to treat push-off weakness. METHODS Three patients with differential proximal retraction of the gastrocnemius greater than 20 mm after treatment for ATR with inability to run and jump underwent surgical correction with this novel technique and were followed-up for 2 years. A novel selective shortening of the gastrocnemius with autologous hamstring graft was performed in these patients. The Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score were recorded preoperatively and at the final follow-up. RESULTS All three patients were able to return to running and jumping at final follow-up. The ATRS improved significantly in the strength, fatigue, running and jumping domains but there appeared to be a less notable improvement in activities of daily living domain. The AOFAS score showed improvement with the greatest margin in the domain of activity limitation. CONCLUSION This procedure is the first described selective shortening method of the gastrocnemius tendons after differential elongation following ATR. It is a safe and reliable technique providing improved ATRS and AOFAS scores in three patients who were all able to return to running and jumping sports at 2-year follow-up. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choon Chiet Hong
- Fortius Clinic (FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence), 17 Fitzhardinge Street, London, W1H 6EQ, UK.
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, National University Hospital of Singapore, 1E, Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Singapore.
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | | | - James Calder
- Fortius Clinic (FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence), 17 Fitzhardinge Street, London, W1H 6EQ, UK
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
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Diniz P, Lacerda D, Mendes B, Pereira H, Ferreira FC, Kerkhoffs GMMJ. Return-to-performance in elite soccer players after Achilles tendon ruptures: a study using a weighted plus/minus metric and matched-control analysis. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2023; 31:6059-6068. [PMID: 37853243 PMCID: PMC10719144 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-023-07607-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Studies have shown decreased match participation and shortened careers in athletes suffering Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs), but assessment using a true performance metric is lacking. Plus/minus (PM) metrics provide a practical and objective approach to player performance assessment and are commonly used in other sports. This study aimed to quantify and compare individual player performance variations in elite football league players who sustained ATRs and returned to play within 1 year compared to those without ATRs, using a PM metric. METHODS Player and team data were sourced from Transfermarkt.com. Male players sustaining ATRs between 2007 and 2018 were identified through injury reports. A control group (CTRL) was matched by position, age, height, and league, with a 6:1 ratio of controls to ATR subjects. The day of injury was considered "time zero". Year -1 corresponds to the 360 days preceding injury, and Year 1 to the interval between 360 and 720 days after. Performance in the player's main team was evaluated using a previously validated weighted PM metric. Only data from Year -1 and Year 1 were used for ATR versus CTRL group comparisons. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS The ATR group included 125 athletes. Data from more than 76,000 matches were analyzed. No statistically significant differences in net weighted PM metric between Year -1 and Year 1 were found. CONCLUSION No differences were found between athletes suffering from ATRs and controls regarding the weighted PM metric. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Diniz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital de Sant'Ana, Rua de Benguela, 501, 2775-028, Parede, Portugal.
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Fisiogaspar, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Diogo Lacerda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital de Sant'Ana, Rua de Benguela, 501, 2775-028, Parede, Portugal
| | | | - Hélder Pereira
- Orthopaedic Department, Centro Hospitalar Póvoa de Varzim, Vila do Conde, Portugal
- Ripoll y De Prado Sports Clinic: FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Murcia-Madrid, Spain
- University of Minho ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Frederico Castelo Ferreira
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gino M M J Kerkhoffs
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Academic Center for Evidence Based Sports Medicine (ACES), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Collaboration for Health and Safety in Sports (ACHSS), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Barton D, Manoharan A, Khwaja A, Sorenson J, Taylor M. Return to Play Following Achilles Tendon Rupture in NFL Players Based on Position. Foot Ankle Spec 2023; 16:427-436. [PMID: 34609159 DOI: 10.1177/19386400211040351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to determine the return-to-play (RTP) rate and postinjury performance after Achilles tendon (AT) ruptures in National Football League (NFL) skill position players. METHODS The study included NFL skill positions with an AT rupture between the 2009-2010 and 2015-2016 seasons. Performance data were collected and compared against a matched control group. RTP was defined as playing in at least 1 game after repair. RESULTS RTP rate was 57% for the study cohort. The tight ends (TEs) had the highest RTP rate at 71% while the wide receivers (WRs) had the lowest RTP rate at 38%. Compared with the control group, WRs with successful RTP had significantly less receptions per game (P = .01). For defensive players with RTP there were significant decreases in postrepair performance in tackles, passes defended, and fumbles forced/recovered compared with the control group. CONCLUSION A total of 57% of players achieved RTP with WRs and running backs (RBs) having the lowest RTP rates and TEs and linebackers (LBs) having the highest RTP rates. RBs, defensive backs (DBs), and LBs with successful RTP had decreased performance in all categories. This updated information may be helpful for athletes, physicians, scouts, and coaches in evaluating players with a history of AT rupture. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE Analytic, level 3, retrospective cohort study, Epidemiologic study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dane Barton
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Aditya Manoharan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Ansab Khwaja
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Jacob Sorenson
- University of Arizona School of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona
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Vaidya SR, Sharma SC, Al-Jabri T, Kayani B. Return to sport after surgical repair of the Achilles tendon. Br J Hosp Med (Lond) 2023; 84:1-14. [PMID: 37235667 DOI: 10.12968/hmed.2022.0239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Achilles tendon rupture is among the most common sports injuries. In patients with high functional demands, surgical repair is preferred to facilitate early return to sporting function. This article reviews the literature and provides evidence-based guidance for return to sport after operative management of Achilles tendon rupture. A search was performed using PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library for all studies reporting on return to sport after operative management of Achilles tendon rupture. The review included 24 studies reporting on 947 patients, and found that 65-100% of patients were able to return to sport between 3 and 13.4 months post-injury, with incidence of rupture recurrence 0-5.74%. These findings will help patients and healthcare professionals plan a recovery timeline, discuss athletic functionality post-recovery, and understand complications of repair and risk of tendon re-rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Talal Al-Jabri
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Babar Kayani
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University College Hospital, London, UK
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Hoenig T, Gronwald T, Hollander K, Klein C, Frosch KH, Ueblacker P, Rolvien T. Video analysis of Achilles tendon ruptures in professional male football (soccer) reveals underlying injury patterns and provides strategies for injury prevention. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2023; 31:2236-2245. [PMID: 36977780 PMCID: PMC10183418 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-023-07384-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In professional football (soccer), Achilles tendon ruptures are severe injuries. Video analysis promotes a better understanding of the underlying situational and biomechanical patterns, and provides a roadmap for future research to improve the management and prevention of Achilles tendon ruptures. The purpose of this study was to identify injury patterns contributing to acute Achilles tendon ruptures in professional male football players. METHODS Professional male football players with an acute Achilles tendon rupture were identified using an online database. For every in-competition injury, the corresponding football match was detected. Video footage of the injury was accessed using Wyscout.com or publicly available video databases. Situational patterns and injury biomechanics of the injury frame were independently analysed by two reviewers using a standardised checklist and a motion analysis software. Finally, consensus was reached to describe the main injury patterns of Achilles tendon ruptures in professional male football players. RESULTS The search identified video footage of 80 Achilles tendon ruptures in 78 players. Most injuries (94%) occurred through indirect or non-contact mechanisms. The kinematic analysis revealed characteristic joint positions at the time of injury consisting of hip extension, knee extension, ankle dorsiflexion, foot abduction, and foot pronation in most cases. The underlying direction of movement was from flexion to extension (knee) and from plantarflexion to dorsiflexion (ankle). Player actions identified as main injury patterns were stepping back (26%), landing (20%), running/sprinting (18%), jumping (13%), and starting (10%). CONCLUSION Most Achilles tendon ruptures in professional male football players are closed-chain indirect or non-contact injuries. Sudden loading to the plantarflexor musculotendinous unit remains to be the main component for most cases. By achieving a better understanding of underlying injury mechanisms, this study provides new strategies for the prevention of Achilles tendon ruptures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Hoenig
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Gronwald
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karsten Hollander
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Klein
- Department of Sports Injury Prevention, VBG, German Statutory Accident Insurance for the Administrative Sector, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karl-Heinz Frosch
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peter Ueblacker
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
- FC Bayern München Football Club, Munich, Germany
- Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Practice, Munich, Germany
| | - Tim Rolvien
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
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7
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Farinelli L, Abermann E, Meena A, Ueblacker P, Hahne J, Fink C. Return to Play and Pattern of Injury After ACL Rupture in a Consecutive Series of Elite UEFA Soccer Players. Orthop J Sports Med 2023; 11:23259671231153629. [PMID: 36896098 PMCID: PMC9989402 DOI: 10.1177/23259671231153629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Anterior cruciate ligament rupture represents a career-threatening injury for professional soccer players. Purpose To analyze the pattern of injury, return to play (RTP), and performance of a consecutive series of elite professional soccer players after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Study Design Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods We evaluated the medical records of 40 consecutive elite soccer players who underwent ACLR by a single surgeon between September 2018 and May 2022. Patient age, height, weight, body mass index, position, injury history, affected side, RTP time, minutes played per season (MPS), and MPS as a percentage of playable minutes before and after ACLR were retrieved from medical records and from publicly available media-based platforms. Results Included were 27 male patients (mean ± SD age at surgery, 23.2 ± 4.3 years; range, 18-34 years). The injury occurred during matches in 24 players (88.9%), with a noncontact mechanism in 22 (91.7%). Meniscal pathology was found in 21 patients (77.8%). Lateral meniscectomy and meniscal repair were performed in 2 (7.4%) and 14 (51.9%) patients, respectively, and medial meniscectomy and meniscal repair were performed in 3 (11.1%) and 13 (48.1%) patients, respectively. A total of 17 players (63.0%) underwent ACLR with bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft and 10 (37.0%) with soft tissue quadriceps tendon. Lateral extra-articular tenodesis was added in 5 patients (18.5%). The overall RTP rate was 92.6% (25 of 27). Two athletes moved to a lower league after surgery. The mean MPS% during the last preinjury season was 56.69% ± 21.71%; this decreased significantly to 29.18% ± 20.6% (P < .001) in the first postoperative season and then increased to 57.76% ± 22.89% and 55.89% ± 25.8% in the second and third postoperative seasons. Two (7.4%) reruptures and 2 (7.4%) failed meniscal repairs were reported. Conclusion ACLR in elite UEFA soccer players was associated with a 92.6% rate of RTP and 7.4% rate of reinjury within 6 months after primary surgery. Moreover, 7.4% of soccer players moved to a lower league during the first season after surgery. Age, graft selection, concomitant treatments, and lateral extra-articular tenodesis were not significantly associated with prolonged RTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Farinelli
- Clinical Orthopaedics, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elisabeth Abermann
- Gelenkpunkt-Sports and Joint Surgery, Innsbruck, Austria.,Research Unit for Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and Injury Prevention, Private University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Amit Meena
- Gelenkpunkt-Sports and Joint Surgery, Innsbruck, Austria.,Research Unit for Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and Injury Prevention, Private University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Innsbruck, Austria.,Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Jochen Hahne
- Football Club FC Bayern München, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Fink
- Gelenkpunkt-Sports and Joint Surgery, Innsbruck, Austria.,Research Unit for Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and Injury Prevention, Private University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Innsbruck, Austria
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Cross AG, Khalil LS, Tomlinson M, Tramer JS, Makhni EC, Cox BA. Percutaneous Achilles Tendon Repair Using Ultrasound Guidance: An Intraoperative Ultrasound Technique. Arthrosc Tech 2023; 12:e173-e180. [PMID: 36879876 PMCID: PMC9984726 DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2022.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Rupture of the Achilles tendon is a common injury seen in patients of varying ages and activity levels. There are many considerations for treatment of these injuries, with both operative and nonoperative management providing satisfactory outcomes in the literature. The decision to proceed with surgical intervention should be individualized for each patient, including the patient's age, future athletic goals, and comorbidities. Recently, a minimally invasive percutaneous approach to repair the Achilles tendon has been proposed as an equivalent alternative to the traditional open repair, while avoiding wound complications associated with larger incisions. However, many surgeons have been hesitant to adopt these approaches due to poor visualization, concern that suture capture in the tendon is not as robust, and the potential for iatrogenic sural nerve injury. The purpose of this Technical Note is to describe a technique using high-resolution ultrasound guidance intraoperatively during minimally invasive repair of the Achilles tendon. This technique minimizes the drawbacks of poor visualization associated with percutaneous repair, while providing the benefit of a minimally invasive approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin G Cross
- Cox Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, U.S.A
| | - Lafi S Khalil
- Henry Ford Hospital, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A
| | - Maggie Tomlinson
- Cox Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, U.S.A
| | - Joseph S Tramer
- Henry Ford Hospital, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A
| | - Eric C Makhni
- Henry Ford Hospital, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A
| | - Benjamin A Cox
- Cox Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, U.S.A
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Armitage M, McErlain-Naylor SA, Devereux G, Beato M, Buckthorpe M. On-field rehabilitation in football: Current knowledge, applications and future directions. Front Sports Act Living 2022; 4:970152. [PMID: 36544545 PMCID: PMC9760760 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2022.970152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Armitage
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom,Performance Services Department, Norwich City Football Club, Norwich, United Kingdom,Faculty of Sport, Allied Health and Performance Science, St Mary's University Twickenham, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Mark Armitage
| | - Stuart A. McErlain-Naylor
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom,School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin Devereux
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Beato
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Buckthorpe
- Faculty of Sport, Allied Health and Performance Science, St Mary's University Twickenham, London, United Kingdom
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Della Villa F, Esposito F, Busà M, Stillavato S, Zago M. The three-dimensional reconstruction of an Achilles tendon rupture in a professional football player reveals a multiplanar injury mechanism. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2022; 30:4198-4202. [PMID: 35900588 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-022-07078-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is a rare although very serious injury for football players; currently, studies on ATR in football are scant. This case report intends to firstly describe the situational pattern and three-dimensional mechanism of the ATR injury occurred to a professional football player during the last UEFA 2020 Championship. To reconstruct the full 3D joint kinematics throughout the injury action, the model-based image-matching technique was used. The key findings were: (i) ATR injury combined a sudden ankle dorsiflexion action with an internal plantarflexion moment while performing a crossover cut at high speed; (ii) a multi-planar loading occurred during the push-off phase.Level of evidence V.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Della Villa
- Education and Research Department, Isokinetic Medical Group, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Via Casteldebole, 8/4, 40132, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Fabio Esposito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via R. Galeazzi 4, 20161, Milan, Italy
| | - Mattia Busà
- Education and Research Department, Isokinetic Medical Group, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Via Casteldebole, 8/4, 40132, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Susanna Stillavato
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
- Sport Science Area, Soccerment Srl, Via Paleocapa 6, 20121, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Zago
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
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11
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High return to sport rate and few re-ruptures at long term in professional footballers after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstrings. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2022; 30:3681-3688. [PMID: 35451640 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-022-06944-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures are considered high burden injuries in sports with high pivotal activity, especially for professional footballers. A lack of evidence exists about long-term follow up of professional elite athletes who underwent ACL reconstruction. The purpose of the study is to analyze the return to play and the career of professional footballers who underwent ACL reconstruction with hamstrings, to evaluate re-rupture and reoperation at either indexed and contralateral knee, and to assess the long-term clinical subjective outcomes and satisfaction. METHODS Twenty-eight professional footballers that underwent 33 ACL reconstructions were retrospectively included in the study. All surgical interventions were performed using hamstring tendons graft and an over the top technique. Inclusion criteria were: inability to compete due to joint instability caused by total or subtotal ACL lesion, patients contracted to a professional football team at time of surgery. Exclusion criteria were: multi-ligament reconstruction or concomitant meniscal allograft transplantation. Patients were contacted by phone and a brief questionnaire about surgery was administered. Subsequently, a Lysholm knee scoring scale was obtained. After that, an online research was performed on publicly available websites in order to retrieve information of the patients included after surgery. RESULTS In all cases, ACL Reconstruction was performed with hamstring tendons using a non-anatomic Double-Bundle technique in 16 cases (49%), an Over-The-Top Single-Bundle technique in 9 cases (27%), and an Over-The-Top Single-Bundle plus Lateral Plasty technique in 8 cases (24%); moreover, a meniscal lesion was present in 20 cases (61%). Three (9%) of the 33 ACL reconstruction failed (2/16 Double-Bundle, 1/9 Single- Bundle, 0/8 Single-Bundle + Lateral Plasty; p = n.s.), with two of them within 12 months from surgery. Other procedures, mainly arthroscopic meniscectomies, were performed in 10 cases (30%). The first official match was played after an average of 8.0 ± 3.6 (4.6-18.2) months in 31 cases (94%). Patients were evaluated after 12.6 ± 3.3 years (6.7-17.5) from the indexed ACL reconstruction. The average Lysholm score was 94.2 ± 8.3. CONCLUSIONS In our small case-series, professional soccer players were able to return to play at a competitive level with a hamstrings over the top technique. Patients with long careers had a high percentage of reoperation on the contralateral knee. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV.
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12
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Della Villa F, Buckthorpe M, Tosarelli F, Zago M, Zaffagnini S, Grassi A. Video analysis of Achilles tendon rupture in male professional football (soccer) players: injury mechanisms, patterns and biomechanics. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2022; 8:e001419. [PMID: 36172398 PMCID: PMC9511658 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2022-001419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Achilles tendon rupture (ATR), while rare in football, is a severe career-threatening injury associated with long-layoff times. To date, no study has documented ATR's mechanism in professional football players. Aim To describe the mechanisms, situational patterns and gross biomechanics (kinematics) of ATR injuries in professional male football players. Methods Eighty-six (n=86) consecutive ATR injuries in professional football players during official matches were identified. Sixty (70%) injury videos were identified for mechanism and situational pattern, with biomechanical analysis feasible in 42 cases. Three independent reviewers evaluated the injury videos. Distribution of ATR during the season, the match play and on the field were also reported. Results Fifty (n=50, 83%) injuries were classified as non-contact and 10 (17%) as indirect contact. ATRs are injuries occurring during accelerations; three main situational patterns were identified: (1) forward acceleration from standing (n=25, 42%); (2) cross-over cutting (n=15, 25%) and (3) vertical jumping (n=11, 18%). Biomechanically, ATR injuries were consistent with a multiplanar loading at the injury frame consisting of a slightly flexed trunk (15.5°), extended hip (-19.5°), early flexed knee (22.5°) and end-range dorsiflexed (40°) ankle in the sagittal plane and foot pronation; 27 (45%) ATRs occurred in the first 30 min of effective match time. Conclusions All ATRs in professional football were either non-contact (83%) or indirect contact (17%) injuries. The most common situational patterns were forward acceleration from standing, cross-over cutting and vertical jumping. Biomechanics was consistent and probably triggered by a multiplanar, although predominantly sagittal, loading of the injured Achilles tendon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Della Villa
- Education and Research Department, Isokinetic Medical Group, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Bologna, Italy
| | - Matthew Buckthorpe
- Education and Research Department, Isokinetic Medical Group, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Bologna, Italy.,Allied Health and Performance Science, St Mary's University, Twickenham, London, England, UK
| | - Fillippo Tosarelli
- Education and Research Department, Isokinetic Medical Group, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Zago
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Stefano Zaffagnini
- IIa Clinica Ortopedica e Traumatologica, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli IRCCS, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto Grassi
- IIa Clinica Ortopedica e Traumatologica, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli IRCCS, Bologna, Italy
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13
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Mansfield K, Dopke K, Koroneos Z, Bonaddio V, Adeyemo A, Aynardi M. Achilles Tendon Ruptures and Repair in Athletes-a Review of Sports-Related Achilles Injuries and Return to Play. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med 2022; 15:353-361. [PMID: 35804260 DOI: 10.1007/s12178-022-09774-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Achilles tendon ruptures (ATR) are detrimental to sports performance, and optimal treatment strategy and guidelines on return to play (RTP) remain controversial. This current review investigates the recent literature surrounding nonoperative versus operative management of ATR, clinical outcomes, and operative techniques to allow the athlete a successful return to their respective sport. RECENT FINDINGS The Achilles tendon (AT) is crucial to the athlete, as it is essential for explosive activities such as running and jumping. Athletes that sustain an ATR play in fewer games and perform at a lower level of play compared to age-matched controls. Recent studies also theorize that ATRs occur due to elongation of the tendon with fatigue failure. Biomechanical studies have focused on comparing modes of fixation under dynamic loading to recreate this mechanism. ATRs can be career-ending injuries. Fortunately, the recent incorporation of early weight-bearing and functional rehabilitation programming for non-operative and operative patients alike proves to be beneficial. Especially for those treated nonoperatively, with the incorporation of functional rehabilitation, the risk of re-rupture among non-operative patients is beginning to approach the historical lower risk of re-rupture observed among patients treated operatively. Despite this progress in decreasing risk of re-rupture particularly among non-operative patients, operative managements are associated with unique benefits that may be of particular interest for athletes and active individuals. Recent studies demonstrate that operative intervention improves strength and functional outcomes with more efficacy compared to nonoperative management with rehabilitation. The current literature supports operative intervention in elite athletes to improve performance and shorten the duration to RTP. However, we acknowledge that surgical intervention does have inherent risks. Ultimately, most if not all young and/or high-level athletes with an ATR benefit from surgical repair, but it is crucial to take a stepwise algorithmic approach and consider other factors, which may lead towards nonoperative intervention. These factors include age, chronicity of injury, gap of ATR, social factors, and medical history amongst others in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Mansfield
- Center for Orthopaedic Research and Translational Science, The Pennsylvania State University, 500 University Drive, H089, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Kelly Dopke
- Center for Orthopaedic Research and Translational Science, The Pennsylvania State University, 500 University Drive, H089, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Zachary Koroneos
- Center for Orthopaedic Research and Translational Science, The Pennsylvania State University, 500 University Drive, H089, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Vincenzo Bonaddio
- Penn State Milton Hershey Medical Center Department of Bone and Joint, 30 Hope Drive, Building A; PO Box 859, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Adeshina Adeyemo
- Penn State Milton Hershey Medical Center Department of Bone and Joint, 30 Hope Drive, Building A; PO Box 859, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Michael Aynardi
- Penn State Milton Hershey Medical Center Department of Bone and Joint, 30 Hope Drive, Building A; PO Box 859, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA.
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14
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Mazza D, Annibaldi A, Princi G, Arioli L, Marzilli F, Monaco E, Ferretti A. Injuries During Return to Sport After the COVID-19 Lockdown: An Epidemiologic Study of Italian Professional Soccer Players. Orthop J Sports Med 2022; 10:23259671221101612. [PMID: 35722177 PMCID: PMC9201316 DOI: 10.1177/23259671221101612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The injury rate in professional soccer players may be influenced by match
frequency. Purpose: To assess how changes in match frequency that occurred because of coronavirus
disease 2019 (COVID-19) influenced training and match injuries in the
Italian Serie A league. Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods: Three phases in the Serie A league, each 41 days long, were evaluated: phase
A was the beginning of the 2019-2020 season; phase B was a period after the
COVID-19 lockdown was lifted, when the remaining matches of the season were
played with greater frequency; and phase C was the beginning of the
2020-2021 season. All male professional soccer players who were injured
during the 3 phases were included. Player age, height, position, injury
history, and return to play (RTP) were retrieved from a publicly available
website. Training- and match-related injuries during each of the 3 phases
were collected and compared. Moreover, match injuries that occurred after
the lockdown phase (phase B), in which there were 12 days designated for
playing matches (“match-days”), were compared with injuries in the first 12
match-days of phases A and C. Results: When comparing 41-day periods, we observed the injury burden (per 1000
exposure-hours) was significantly lower in phase B (278.99 days absent) than
in phase A (425.4 days absent; P < .05) and phase C
(484.76 days absent; P < .05). A longer mean RTP period
was recorded in phase A than in phase B (44.6 vs 23.1 days;
P < .05). Regarding 12–match day periods (81 days in
phase A, 41 days in phase B, and 89 days in phase C), there was a
significantly higher match injury rate (0.56 vs 0.39 injuries/1000
exposure-hours; P < .05) and incidence (11.8% vs 9.3%;
P < .05) in phase B than in phase A and a longer
mean RTP period in phase A than in phase B (41.8 vs 23.1 days;
P < .05). Finally, the rate and incidence of
training-related injuries were significantly higher in phase B (4.6
injuries/1000 exposure-hours and 6.5, respectively) than in phase A (1.41
injuries/1000 exposure-hours and 2.04, respectively) (P
< .05). Conclusion: Both training- and match-related injuries were greater during the abbreviated
period after the COVID-19 lockdown. These may be linked to the greater match
frequency of that period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Mazza
- Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy.,Italian Football Research Group, Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Annibaldi
- Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy.,Italian Football Research Group, Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Princi
- Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy.,Italian Football Research Group, Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy
| | - Leopoldo Arioli
- Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Marzilli
- Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo Monaco
- Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Ferretti
- Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy.,Italian Football Research Group, Orthopedic Unit and "Kirk Kilgour" Sports Injury Centre, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Rome "Sapienza," Rome, Italy
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15
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Ghaddaf AA, Alomari MS, Alsharef JF, Alakkas E, Alshehri MS. Early versus late weightbearing in conservative management of acute achilles tendon rupture: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Injury 2022; 53:1543-1551. [PMID: 35115168 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2022.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is one of the most frequently encountered injuries in Sports Medicine. ATR can be managed surgically or conservatively followed by early functional rehabilitation or cast immobilization. The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to provide an update about the role of early weightbearing (WB) versus late WB on the clinical outcomes of adults with acute ATR. METHODS We performed a systematic literature search in Web of Science, Ovid, Medline/PubMed, and CENTRAL. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared early WB, defined as weight-bearing within 4 weeks of treatment, to late WB for individuals with acute (<14 days) ATR. We sought to evaluate the following outcomes: re-rupture rate, Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS), return to pre-injury sport activity, time to return to work, and adverse event rate. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was used to represent continuous outcomes while the risk ratio (RR) was used to represent dichotomous outcomes. RESULTS A total of 9 RCTs that enrolled 1046 participants were deemed eligible. There was no significant difference between early WB and late WB in terms of re-rupture rate (RR=0.75, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.16), ATRS (SMD=0.06, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.16), return to pre-injury sport activity (RR=1.05, 95% CI 0.86 to 1.28), time to return to work (SMD=0.03, 95% CI -0.20 to 0.26), or adverse event rate (RR=1.87, 95% CI 0.53 to 6.63). CONCLUSION This meta-analysis shows no difference in the functional outcomes and patient-reported outcomes between early functional rehabilitation and cast immobilization for conservatively treat individuals with acute ATR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah A Ghaddaf
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mohammed S Alomari
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jawaher F Alsharef
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eyad Alakkas
- Department of Surgery/Orthopedic Section, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed S Alshehri
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Surgery/Orthopedic Section, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Diaz CC, Lavoie-Gagne OZ, Korrapati A, John NS, Diaz MI, Forlenza EM, Trasolini NA, Forsythe B. Return to Play and Player Performance After Foot Fracture in UEFA Soccer Players. Orthop J Sports Med 2022; 10:23259671221078308. [PMID: 35299713 PMCID: PMC8921753 DOI: 10.1177/23259671221078308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a paucity of information on rate and time to return to play (RTP) in elite-level soccer players who have sustained foot fractures. Purpose: To (1) determine the rate and timing of RTP after foot fracture (eg, tarsal, metatarsal, or phalangeal), (2) investigate foot fracture reinjury incidence after RTP, and (3) evaluate performance after foot fracture as compared with matched, uninjured controls. Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods: Athletes sustaining foot fractures were identified across the 5 major European soccer leagues (English Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Ligue 1, and Serie A) between 2000 and 2016. Injured athletes were matched to controls (1:1) using demographic characteristics and performance metrics from 1 season before injury. The authors recorded RTP rate, reinjury incidence, player characteristics associated with RTP within 2 seasons of injury, player availability, field time, and performance metrics during the 4 seasons after injury. Results: A total of 192 elite soccer players sustaining a foot fracture were identified; 40 players (20.8%) underwent operative treatment. Athletes missed an average of 69.41 ± 59.43 days and 5.15 ± 23.28 games. In the 4 seasons after injury, 80% of players returned to play, with 72% returning to play within 1 season of injury. Nine players (5%) sustained a subsequent foot fracture. Athletes with a foot fracture demonstrated significantly longer league retention compared with uninjured controls (P < .001). Elite soccer players older than 30 years of age were less likely to RTP (odds ratio, 0.67; P = .002), whereas career experience, field position, and baseline performance showed no significant association with RTP rates. Injured athletes demonstrated similar performance to controls during the 4 years after injury, and there were no position-dependent differences on subgroup analysis. The players who underwent operative treatment had more assists per 90 minutes and more team points per game during the first season after injury compared with athletes treated nonoperatively. Conclusion: Foot fractures in elite soccer players resulted in moderate loss of play time (69.41 days). RTP rates were high at 80%, although players older than 30 years of age were less likely to RTP. On RTP, athletes who sustained a foot fracture maintained performance similar to preinjury levels and to uninjured controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor C. Diaz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ophelie Z. Lavoie-Gagne
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Avinaash Korrapati
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nalin S. John
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mariah I. Diaz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Enrico M. Forlenza
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nicholas A. Trasolini
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Wake Forest Baptist, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brian Forsythe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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17
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Abdelatif NMN, Batista JP. Endoscopic Flexor Hallucis Longus Transfer for the Management of Acute Achilles Tendon Ruptures in Professional Soccer Players. Foot Ankle Int 2022; 43:164-175. [PMID: 34558318 DOI: 10.1177/10711007211036439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute Achilles tendon ruptures (AATRs) that occur in athletes can be a career-ending injury. The aim of this study was to describe return to play and clinical outcomes of isolated endoscopic flexor hallucis longus (FHL) transfer in active soccer players with AATR. METHODS Twenty-seven active male soccer players who underwent endoscopically assisted FHL tendon transfer for acute Achilles tendon ruptures were included in this study. Follow up was 46.2 (±10.9) months after surgery. Return to play criteria and clinical outcome measures were evaluated. RESULTS All players returned to playing professional competitive soccer games. Return to active team training was at a mean of 5.8 (±1.1) months postoperatively. However, return to active competitive match play occurred at a mean of 8.3 (±1.4) months. Twenty-two players (82%) were able to return to their preinjury levels and performances and resumed their professional careers at the same soccer club as their preinjury state. One player (3.7%) shifted his career to professional indoor soccer. At 26 months postoperatively, the mean Tegner activity scale score was 9.7 (±0.4), the mean Achilles tendon total rupture score was 99 (±2), and the mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot score was 99 (±3). No patients reported any great toe complaints or symptomatic deficits of flexion strength. CONCLUSION The current study demonstrated satisfactory and comparable return to play criteria and clinical results with minimal complications when using an advanced endoscopically assisted technique involving FHL tendon transfer to treat acute Achilles tendon ruptures in this specific subset of patient cohort. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level II, prospective cohort case series study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jorge Pablo Batista
- Head Ankle and Knee Section, Orthopaedics Department, Centro Artroscópico Jorge Batista SA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (CABA), CP, Argentina.,Department of Sport Medicine, Club Atlético Boca Juniors, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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18
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Lavoie-Gagne OZ, Korrapati A, Retzky J, Bernstein DN, Diaz CC, Berlinberg EJ, Forlenza EM, Fury MS, Mehta N, O'Donnell EA, Forsythe B. Return to Play and Player Performance After Meniscal Tear Among Elite-Level European Soccer Players: A Matched Cohort Analysis of Injuries From 2006 to 2016. Orthop J Sports Med 2022; 10:23259671211059541. [PMID: 35047646 PMCID: PMC8761888 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211059541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Meniscal injuries are extremely common in soccer athletes, and little is known about postrecovery performance. Purpose: To (1) identify characteristics associated with return to play (RTP) to the same league level and (2) evaluate long-term effects that injury and management approach may have on player performance. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Using publicly available records, we identified athletes who sustained meniscal tears across the 5 major European soccer leagues (English Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Ligue 1, and Serie A) between 2006 and 2016. Injured athletes were matched to controls 1:2 by demographics and performance. Investigations included rate of RTP to the same league level, reinjury, player characteristics associated with RTP within 2 seasons, long-term availability, field time, and performance metrics standardized to 90 minutes of play during the next 4 seasons. Results: A total of 250 players sustaining meniscal tears were included, of which 106 (42%) received surgical management. Median absence was 57.5 days (interquartile range [IQR], 35-92) or 7 games (IQR, 4-12). Rate of RTP was 70%, and the reinjury rate 5% if a player could RTP. Age greater than 30 years was a negative predictor for RTP (odds ratio [OR], 0.62; P = .002), whereas higher preinjury goals per game (OR, 2.80; P = .04) and surgical management (OR, 1.38; P = .002) were positive predictors for RTP. Surgical management was associated with higher long-term availability (P < .01). As compared with the control, there were no significant differences in field time or performance metrics after RTP, either overall or by player position. As compared with nonoperative management, defenders undergoing surgery demonstrated decreased field time. Attackers and midfielders demonstrated similar field time and performance regardless of management. Conclusion: RTP of elite soccer athletes sustaining meniscal tear is contingent on age, preinjury performance, and management approach. Those who RTP to the same league level can be expected to demonstrate equivalent field time, performance, and long-term availability as noninjured athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ophelie Z Lavoie-Gagne
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Avinaash Korrapati
- Department of Sports Medicine, Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Julia Retzky
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York City, New York, USA
| | - David N Bernstein
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Connor C Diaz
- Department of Sports Medicine, Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Elyse J Berlinberg
- Department of Sports Medicine, Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Enrico M Forlenza
- Department of Sports Medicine, Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Matthew S Fury
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nabil Mehta
- Department of Sports Medicine, Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Evan A O'Donnell
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brian Forsythe
- Department of Sports Medicine, Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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19
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Grassi A, Caravelli S, Fuiano M, D'Hooghe P, Filippini M, Della Villa F, Mosca M, Zaffagnini S. Epidemiology of Achilles Tendon Rupture in Italian First Division Football (Soccer) Players and Their Performance After Return to Play. Clin J Sport Med 2022; 32:e90-e95. [PMID: 33538516 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000000879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the epidemiology, incidence rate, incidence proportion, and prevalence of Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) in professional footballers and their performance after the injury. DATA SOURCES Professional male footballers participating in Serie A in 11 consecutive seasons (2008/2009-2018/2019) were screened to identify ATRs through the online football archive transfermarkt.com. Exposure in matches and training was calculated. The number of matches played in the 5 seasons before and after ATRs was obtained, when possible, together with transfers to a different team or participation in lower Divisions. MAIN RESULTS Eleven ATRs were found in 11 footballers with a mean age of 29.8 ± 4.4 years; 72% of ATR involved the nondominant leg; 58% occurred during matches and 42% during training, with no peculiar distribution along the playing season. The overall incidence proportion was 0.17% (0.11% during matches and 0.06% during training). The overall incidence rate was 0.007 injuries per 1000 hours of play (0.051 during matches and 0.003during training; P < 0.0001). All players returned to play soccer after a mean of 170 ± 35 days after ATRs and participated in an official match after a mean of 274 ± 98 days. However, 2 seasons after ATRs, 3 footballers were playing in a lower Division; 1 played less than 10 matches (compared with >25 matches in the 5 seasons before an ATR) and 1 had retired. CONCLUSIONS An overall ATR rate of 0.007 per 1000 hours of soccer play and an incidence proportion of 0.17% were reported. All footballers return to play; however, up to 40% players decreased the level of play by reducing the number of games or participating in a lower Division 2 seasons after an ATR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Grassi
- 2nd Clinic of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvio Caravelli
- 2nd Clinic of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mario Fuiano
- 2nd Clinic of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Pieter D'Hooghe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Aspetar Hospital, Doha, Qatar ; and
| | - Matteo Filippini
- 2nd Clinic of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Della Villa
- Education and Research Department, Isokinetic Medical Group, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Mosca
- 2nd Clinic of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Zaffagnini
- 2nd Clinic of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
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20
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Diniz P, Abreu M, Lacerda D, Martins A, Pereira H, Ferreira FC, Kerkhoffs GMMJ, Fred A. Pre-injury performance is most important for predicting the level of match participation after Achilles tendon ruptures in elite soccer players: a study using a machine learning classifier. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2022; 30:4225-4237. [PMID: 35941323 PMCID: PMC9360634 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-022-07082-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Achilles tendon ruptures (ATR) are career-threatening injuries in elite soccer players due to the decreased sports performance they commonly inflict. This study presents an exploratory data analysis of match participation before and after ATRs and an evaluation of the performance of a machine learning (ML) model based on pre-injury features to predict whether a player will return to a previous level of match participation. METHODS The website transfermarkt.com was mined, between January and March of 2021, for relevant entries regarding soccer players who suffered an ATR while playing in first or second leagues. The difference between average minutes played per match (MPM) 1 year before injury and between 1 and 2 years after the injury was used to identify patterns in match participation after injury. Clustering analysis was performed using k-means clustering. Predictions of post-injury match participation were made using the XGBoost classification algorithm. The performance of this model was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and Brier score loss (BSL). RESULTS Two hundred and nine players were included in the study. Data from 32,853 matches was analysed. Exploratory data analysis revealed that forwards, midfielders and defenders increased match participation during the first year after injury, with goalkeepers still improving at 2 years. Players were grouped into four clusters regarding the difference between MPMs 1 year before injury and between 1 and 2 years after the injury. These groups ranged between a severe decrease (n = 34; - 59 ± 13 MPM), moderate decrease (n = 75; - 25 ± 8 MPM), maintenance (n = 70; 0 ± 8 MPM), or increase (n = 30; 32 ± 13 MPM). Regarding the predictive model, the average AUROC after cross-validation was 0.81 ± 0.10, and the BSL was 0.12, with the most important features relating to pre-injury match participation. CONCLUSION Most players take 1 year to reach peak match participation after an ATR. Good performance was attained using a ML classifier to predict the level of match participation following an ATR, with features related to pre-injury match participation displaying the highest importance. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Diniz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital de Sant'Ana, Rua de Benguela, 501, 2775-028, Parede, Portugal. .,Department of Bioengineering and iBB, Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal. .,Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal. .,Fisiogaspar, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Mariana Abreu
- grid.9983.b0000 0001 2181 4263Department of Bioengineering and iBB, Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal ,grid.421174.50000 0004 0393 4941Instituto de Telecomunicações, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Diogo Lacerda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital de Sant’Ana, Rua de Benguela, 501, 2775-028 Parede, Portugal
| | - António Martins
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital de Sant’Ana, Rua de Benguela, 501, 2775-028 Parede, Portugal ,Fisiogaspar, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Hélder Pereira
- Orthopaedic Department, Centro Hospitalar Póvoa de Varzim, Vila do Conde, Portugal ,Ripoll y De Prado Sports Clinic: FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Murcia-Madrid, Spain ,grid.10328.380000 0001 2159 175XUniversity of Minho ICVS/3B’s-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Frederico Castelo Ferreira
- grid.9983.b0000 0001 2181 4263Department of Bioengineering and iBB, Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal ,grid.9983.b0000 0001 2181 4263Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gino MMJ Kerkhoffs
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.491090.5Academic Center for Evidence Based Sports Medicine (ACES), Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.512724.7Amsterdam Collaboration for Health and Safety in Sports (ACHSS), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ana Fred
- grid.9983.b0000 0001 2181 4263Department of Bioengineering and iBB, Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal ,grid.421174.50000 0004 0393 4941Instituto de Telecomunicações, Lisbon, Portugal
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21
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Three Main Mechanisms Characterize Medial Collateral Ligament Injuries in Professional Male Soccer-Blow to the Knee, Contact to the Leg or Foot, and Sliding: Video Analysis of 37 Consecutive Injuries. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2021; 51:611-618. [PMID: 34784244 DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2021.10529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the mechanisms, situational patterns, and biomechanics (kinematics) of medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries in professional male soccer players. DESIGN Case series. METHODS Fifty-seven consecutive MCL injuries across 2 seasons of professional soccer matches were identified. We obtained and reviewed 37 of 57 (65%) injury videos to establish the injury mechanism, situational pattern, and knee flexion angle. We used detailed biomechanical analysis to assess the indirect and noncontact injuries. Injury layoff times, timing of injuries during the match, and location of the injuries on the pitch were also reported. RESULTS Twenty-three (62%) injuries were direct contact, 9 (24%) were indirect contact, and 5 (14%) were noncontact. Three main sprain mechanisms were noted: (1) direct contact/blow to the knee (n = 16), (2) contact to the leg or foot (lever like) (n = 7), and (3) sliding (n = 9). Seventy-three percent of MCL injuries occurred during 2 main situations: (1) pressing/tackling (n = 14, 38%) and (2) being tackled (n = 13, 35%). For indirect and noncontact injuries, knee valgus loading (100% of cases), hip abduction (73% of cases), and external foot rotation (92% of cases) were prominent injury kinematics, often with lateral trunk tilt (median, 10°; 64% of cases) and rotation (64% of cases). Knee flexion angles were higher for indirect and noncontact injuries (median, 100°) than for direct-contact injuries (median, 22°; P<.01). CONCLUSION Nearly two thirds of MCL injuries occurred after direct contact; 1 in every 4 MCL injuries occurred after indirect contact. Three sprain mechanisms characterized MCL injuries: (1) blow to the knee, (2) contact to the leg or foot (lever like), and (3) sliding. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2021;51(12):611-618. Epub 16 Nov 2021. doi:10.2519/jospt.2021.10529.
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22
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Hoenig T, Edouard P, Krause M, Malhan D, Relógio A, Junge A, Hollander K. Analysis of more than 20,000 injuries in European professional football by using a citizen science-based approach: An opportunity for epidemiological research? J Sci Med Sport 2021; 25:300-305. [PMID: 34916169 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2021.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES It has been claimed that analyses of large datasets from publicly accessible, open-collaborated ("citizen science-based") online databases may provide additional insight into the epidemiology of injuries in professional football. However, this approach comes with major limitations, raising critical questions about the current trend of utilizing citizen science-based data. Therefore, we aimed to determine if citizen science-based health data from a popular online database on professional football players can be used for epidemiological research, i.e. in providing results comparable to other data sources used in previously published studies. DESIGN Retrospective database analysis. METHODS Transfermarkt.com (Transfermarkt; Hamburg; Germany) is a publicly accessible online database on various data of professional football players. All information provided in the section "injury history" of football players from the top five European leagues over a period of ten seasons (2009/10-2018/19) was analyzed. Frequency, characteristics, and incidence of injuries were reported according to seasons and countries, and results compared with three previously published databases (a scientific injury surveillance, a media-based study, and an insurance database). RESULTS Overall, 21,598 injuries of 11,507 players were analyzed from the Transfermarkt.com database. Incidence was 0.63 injuries per player-season (95% confidence interval 0.62 to 0.64) but significant differences between subgroups (countries, years) were found. In comparison to other databases, citizen science-based data was associated with lower injury incidences and higher proportions of severe injuries. CONCLUSIONS With few exceptions (e.g., severe injuries), the use of citizen science-based health data on professional football players cannot be recommended at present for epidemiological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Hoenig
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
| | - Pascal Edouard
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Science (LIBM EA 7424), University of Lyon, University Jean Monnet, France; Department of Clinical and Exercise Physiology, Sports Medicine Unit, University Hospital of Saint-Etienne, Faculty of Medicine, France
| | - Matthias Krause
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Deeksha Malhan
- Institute for Theoretical Biology (ITB), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany; Molecular Cancer Research Center (MKFZ), Medical Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany; Institute for Systems Medicine and Faculty of Human Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Germany
| | - Angela Relógio
- Institute for Theoretical Biology (ITB), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany; Molecular Cancer Research Center (MKFZ), Medical Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany; Institute for Systems Medicine and Faculty of Human Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Germany
| | - Astrid Junge
- Swiss Concussion Center, Switzerland; Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karsten Hollander
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Germany
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23
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Diaz CC, Forlenza EM, Lavoie-Gagne OZ, Knapik DM, Korrapati A, Chahla J, Forsythe B. Acromioclavicular Joint Separation in UEFA Soccer Players: A Matched-Cohort Analysis of Return to Play and Player Performance From 1999 to 2018. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211026262. [PMID: 34708134 PMCID: PMC8543588 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211026262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) separation injuries are uncommon in professional soccer players, threatening future performance and team contributions. Data regarding return to play (RTP) in professional soccer players after ACJ separation are limited. Purpose To determine the rate, time to RTP, and player performance after ACJ separation in soccer players from the top 5 professional European leagues when compared with a retrospective, matched cohort of uninjured players. Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods Professional soccer players suffering ACJ separation injuries between 1999 and 2018 were identified and were matched to uninjured players (2 controls to 1 injured player) by position, height, age, season year, and length of time played. Information on date of injury, timing to RTP, and player performance metrics (minutes played, games played, goals scored, assists made, and points per game) were collected from transfermarkt.co.uk, uefa.com, fifa.com, official team websites, public injury reports, and press releases. Change in performance metrics for the 4 seasons after the season of injury were based on metrics 1 season before injury. Univariate comparisons were performed using independent 2-group t tests and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests when normality of distributions was violated. Results A total 59 soccer players with ACJ separation injuries were identified. Mean age at injury was 24.6 ± 5.3 years. Of these, 81% of the players returned to play, with 69% returning within postinjury season 1. Mean time to RTP was 49.8 ± 24.3 days (5.9 ± 4.1 games). Two players suffered recurrent ACJ separation injuries in their professional soccer careers. There were no significant differences between athletes who sustained ACJ injuries versus control athletes in the number of games played, minutes per game per season, goals scored, assists, or points in the 4 seasons after injury. Defenders played fewer minutes and recorded fewer assists during postinjury season 1 when compared with control athletes. Conclusion Of the 59 elite soccer players who sustained ACJ separation injuries during the study period, 81% returned to elite competition. Performance metrics were similar to preinjury levels and matched, uninjured control players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor C Diaz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Enrico M Forlenza
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ophelie Z Lavoie-Gagne
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Derrick M Knapik
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Avinaash Korrapati
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jorge Chahla
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Brian Forsythe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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24
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Biz C, Cerchiaro M, Belluzzi E, Bragazzi NL, De Guttry G, Ruggieri P. Long Term Clinical-Functional and Ultrasound Outcomes in Recreational Athletes after Achilles Tendon Rupture: Ma and Griffith versus Tenolig. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57101073. [PMID: 34684110 PMCID: PMC8537444 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57101073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the long-term clinical-functional and ultrasound outcomes of recreational athletes treated with two percutaneous techniques: Ma and Griffith (M&G) and the Tenolig technique (TT). Materials and Methods: recreational athletes, between 18 and 50 years of age, affected by acute Achilles tendon rupture (AATR), treated by M&G or Tenolig techniques were recruited. Clinical-functional outcomes were evaluated using Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS), AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot score, VAS (for pain and satisfaction) questionnaires, and ultrasound analysis (focal thickening, hypoechoic areas, presence of calcifications, tendinitis and alteration of normal fibrillar architecture). Results: 90 patients were included: 50 treated by M&G, 40 by TT. In all, 90% of patients resumed sports activities, with pre-injury levels in 56% of cases after M&G and in 60% after TT. In the M&G group, the averages of the questionnaires were ATRS 90.70 points, AOFAS 91.03, VAS satisfaction 7.08, and VAS pain 1.58. In the TT group: ATRS 90.38 points, AOFAS 90.28, VAS satisfaction 7.76, and VAS pain 1.34. The TT group showed a significantly higher satisfaction and return to sport activities within a shorter time. In the M&G group, ultrasound check showed a significantly greater incidence of thickening and an alteration of fibrillar architecture in the treated tendon. Three infections were reported, including one deep after M&G, two superficial in the TT group, and two re-ruptures in the Tenolig group following a further trauma. Conclusions: At long-term follow-up, M&G and TT are both valid techniques for the treatment of AATRs in recreational athletes, achieving comparable clinical-functional results. However, TT seems to have a higher patient satisfaction rate, a faster return to sports and physical activities, and fewer ultrasound signs of tendinitis. Finally, the cost of the device makes this technique more expensive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Biz
- Orthopedics and Orthopedic Oncology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology DiSCOG, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.C.); (G.D.G.); (P.R.)
- Correspondence: (C.B.); (E.B.); Tel.: +39-0498213239 (C.B.); +39-0498213348 (E.B.)
| | - Mariachiara Cerchiaro
- Orthopedics and Orthopedic Oncology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology DiSCOG, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.C.); (G.D.G.); (P.R.)
| | - Elisa Belluzzi
- Orthopedics and Orthopedic Oncology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology DiSCOG, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.C.); (G.D.G.); (P.R.)
- Musculoskeletal Pathology and Oncology Laboratory, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.B.); (E.B.); Tel.: +39-0498213239 (C.B.); +39-0498213348 (E.B.)
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada;
| | - Giacomo De Guttry
- Orthopedics and Orthopedic Oncology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology DiSCOG, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.C.); (G.D.G.); (P.R.)
| | - Pietro Ruggieri
- Orthopedics and Orthopedic Oncology, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology DiSCOG, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.C.); (G.D.G.); (P.R.)
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25
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Lavoie-Gagne OZ, Retzky J, Diaz CC, Mehta N, Korrapati A, Forlenza EM, Knapik DM, Forsythe B. Return-to-Play Times and Player Performance After Medial Collateral Ligament Injury in Elite-Level European Soccer Players. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211033904. [PMID: 34604429 PMCID: PMC8485161 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211033904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Participation in elite-level soccer predisposes athletes to injuries of the
medial collateral ligament (MCL), resulting in variable durations of time
lost from sport. Purpose: To (1) determine the rate of return to play (RTP) and timing after MCL
injuries, (2) investigate MCL reinjury incidence after RTP, and (3) evaluate
the long-term effects of MCL injury on future performance. Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods: Using publicly available records, we identified athletes who had sustained
MCL injury between 2000 and 2016 across the 5 major European soccer leagues
(English Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Ligue 1, and Serie A). Injured
athletes were matched to controls using demographic characteristics and
performance metrics from the season before injury. We recorded injury
severity, RTP rate, reinjury incidence, player characteristics associated
with RTP within 2 seasons of injury, player availability, field time, and
performance metrics during the 4 seasons after injury. Results: A total of 59 athletes sustained 61 MCL injuries, with 86% (51/59) of
injuries classified as moderate to severe and surgical intervention
performed in 14% (8/59) of athletes. After injury, athletes missed a median
of 33 days (range, 3-259 days) and 4 games (range, 1-30 games). Overall, 71%
(42/59) of athletes returned successfully at the same level, with
multivariable regression demonstrating no athlete characteristic predictive
of RTP. MCL reinjury was reported in 3% (2/59) of athletes. Midfielders
demonstrated decreased field time after RTP when compared with controls
(P < .05). No significant differences in player
performance for any position were identified out to 4 seasons after injury.
Injured athletes had a significantly higher rate of long-term retention
(P < .001). Conclusion: MCL injuries resulted in a median loss of 33 days in elite European soccer
athletes, with the majority of injuries treated nonoperatively. RTP remained
high, and few athletes experienced reinjury. While midfielders demonstrated
a significant decrease in field time after RTP, player performance and
long-term retention were not compromised. Future studies are warranted to
better understand athlete-specific and external variables predictive of MCL
injury and reinjury, while evaluating treatment and rehabilitation protocols
to minimize time lost and to optimize athlete safety and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ophelie Z Lavoie-Gagne
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Julia Retzky
- Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
| | - Connor C Diaz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nabil Mehta
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Avinaash Korrapati
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Enrico M Forlenza
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Derrick M Knapik
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Brian Forsythe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Lavoie-Gagne O, Gong MF, Patel S, Cohn MR, Korrapati A, Forlenza EM, Barmonyallah M, Parvaresh KC, Wolfson TS, Forsythe B. Traumatic Leg Fractures in UEFA Football Athletes: A Matched-Cohort Analysis of Return to Play, Reinjury, Player Retention, and Performance Outcomes. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211024218. [PMID: 34527753 PMCID: PMC8436324 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211024218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The average professional soccer team experiences 1 to 2 traumatic leg fractures per season, with unknown effects on player performance. Purpose: To (1) determine the rate and time to return to play (RTP) following leg fracture, (2) investigate the rate of reinjury following RTP, and (3) investigate long-term effects that lower extremity (LE) fracture may have on elite soccer player performance. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Using publicly available records, we identified athletes sustaining a traumatic leg fracture across the 5 major European soccer leagues (English Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Ligue 1, and Serie A) between 2000 and 2016. Athletes with leg fracture (femur, tibia, and/or fibula) were matched 1:2 to controls by demographic characteristics and performance metrics 1 season before the index timepoint. Investigations included the RTP rate, reinjury rate, player characteristics associated with RTP within 2 seasons, long-term player retention, performance metrics during the 4 following seasons, and subgroup analysis by player position. Results: A total of 112 players with LE fracture and 224 controls were identified. Players with LE fractures were absent for a mean of 157 days (range, 24-601 days) and 21 games (range, 2-68 games). The rate of RTP within 1 season was 80%, with 4% experiencing subsequent refracture. Injured players remained active in the league at a higher rate than their uninjured counterparts. As compared with controls, injured athletes played 309 fewer total minutes (P < .05), scored 0.09 more assists per game (P < .01) 1 season after injury, and scored 0.12 more points per game 4 seasons after injury (P < .01). Defenders were most affected by an LE fracture, playing 5.24 fewer games (P < .05), 603 fewer total minutes (P < .01), and recording 0.19 more assists per 90 minutes of play as compared with controls 1 season after injury (P < .001). Attackers and midfielders demonstrated no significant difference in metrics after RTP when compared with controls. Conclusion: Most players sustaining an LE fracture returned to elite soccer at the same level after a significant loss of playing time, with a 4% rate of refracture. Player retention was higher for those sustaining an LE fracture versus uninjured controls. Overall, injured players did not experience a decline in performance after recovery from an LE fracture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew F Gong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California-San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sumit Patel
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Matthew R Cohn
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Enrico M Forlenza
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Moses Barmonyallah
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California-San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Kevin C Parvaresh
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Brian Forsythe
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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27
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Forlenza EM, Lavoie-Gagne OZ, Lu Y, Diaz CC, Chahla J, Forsythe B. Return to Play and Player Performance After Achilles Tendon Rupture in UEFA Professional Soccer Players: A Matched-Cohort Analysis of Players From 1999 to 2018. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211024199. [PMID: 35146029 PMCID: PMC8822021 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211024199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is a potentially career-ending injury in professional athletes. Limited information exists regarding return to play (RTP) in professional soccer players after this injury. Purpose: To determine the RTP rate and time in professional soccer players after ATR and to evaluate player performance relative to matched controls. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: We evaluated 132 professional soccer players who suffered an ATR between 1999 and 2018. These athletes were matched 2:1 to uninjured controls by position, age, season of injury, seasons played, and height. We collected information on the date of injury, the date of RTP, and player performance metrics (minutes played, games played, goals scored, assists made, and points per game) from official team websites, public injury reports, and press releases. Changes in performance metrics for the 4 years after the season of injury were compared with metrics 1 season before injury. Univariate comparisons were performed using independent-sample, 2-group t tests and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests when normality of distributions was violated. Results: The mean age at ATR was 27.49 ± 4.06 years, and the mean time to RTP was 5.07 ± 2.61 months (18.19 ± 10.96 games). The RTP rate was 71% for the season after injury and 78% for return at any timepoint. Overall, 9% of the injured players experienced a rerupture during the study period. Compared with controls, the injured players played significantly less (-6.77 vs -1.81 games [P < .001] and -560.17 vs -171.17 minutes [P < .05]) and recorded fewer goals (-1.06 vs -0.29 [P < .05]) and assists (-0.76 vs -0.02 [P < .05]) during the season of their Achilles rupture. With the exception of midfielders, there were no significant differences in play time or performance metrics between injured and uninjured players at any postinjury timepoint. Conclusion: Soccer players who suffered an ATR had a 78% RTP rate, with a mean RTP time of 5 months. Injured players played less and demonstrated inferior performance during the season of injury. With the exception of midfielders, players displayed no significant differences in play time or performance during any of the 4 postinjury seasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico M Forlenza
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ophelie Z Lavoie-Gagne
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Yining Lu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Connor C Diaz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jorge Chahla
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Brian Forsythe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Zellers JA, Baxter JR, Silbernagel KG. Functional Ankle Range of Motion but Not Peak Achilles Tendon Force Diminished With Heel-Rise and Jumping Tasks After Achilles Tendon Repair. Am J Sports Med 2021; 49:2439-2446. [PMID: 34115525 PMCID: PMC8282709 DOI: 10.1177/03635465211019436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deficits in sporting performance after Achilles tendon repair may be due to changes in musculotendinous unit structure, including tendon elongation and muscle fascicle shortening. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS The purpose was to discern whether Achilles tendon rupture reduces triceps surae muscle force generation, alters functional ankle range of motion, or both during sports-related tasks. We hypothesized that individuals who have undergone Achilles tendon repair lack the functional ankle range of motion needed to complete sports-related tasks. STUDY DESIGN Descriptive laboratory study. METHODS The study included individuals 1 to 3 years after treatment of Achilles tendon rupture with open repair. Participants (n = 11) completed a heel-rise task and 3 jumping tasks. Lower extremity biomechanics were analyzed using motion capture. Between-limb differences were tested using paired t test. RESULTS Pelvic vertical displacement was reduced during the heel-rise (mean difference, -12.8%; P = .026) but not during the jumping task (P > .1). In the concentric phase of all tasks, peak ankle plantarflexion angle (range of mean difference, -19.2% to -48.8%; P < .05) and total plantar flexor work (defined as the area under the plantar flexor torque - ankle angle curve) (range of mean difference, -9.5% to -25.7%; P < .05) were lower on the repaired side relative to the uninjured side. No significant differences were seen in peak Achilles tendon load or impulse with any of the tasks. There were no differences in plantar flexor work or Achilles tendon load parameters during eccentric phases. CONCLUSION Impaired task performance or increased demands on proximal joints were observed on the repaired side in tasks isolating ankle function. Tasks that did not isolate ankle function appeared to be well recovered, although functional ankle range of motion was reduced with rupture. Reduced plantar flexor muscle-tendon unit work supports previous reports that an elongated tendon and shorter muscle fascicles caused by Achilles tendon rupture constrain functional capacity. Achilles tendon peak load and impulse were not decreased, suggesting that reduced and shifted functional ankle range of motion (favoring dorsiflexion) underlies performance deficits. CLINICAL RELEVANCE These findings point to the need to reduce tendon elongation and restore muscle length of the triceps surae after Achilles tendon rupture in order to address musculature that is short but not necessarily weak for improved performance with sports-related activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Zellers
- Program in Physical Therapy, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Josh R. Baxter
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Lee KT, Hyuk J, Kim SJ. Return to Play After Open Calcaneoplasty for Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy With Haglund Deformity in Competitive Professional Athletes. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211009820. [PMID: 34179205 PMCID: PMC8193669 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211009820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Surgical treatment of insertional Achilles tendinopathy with Haglund deformity in highly competitive professional athletes has not been previously investigated. Purpose To assess clinical outcomes, including return to play (RTP), after surgical treatment of insertional Achilles tendinopathy in professional athletes. Study Design Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods This retrospective study included 20 professional athletes who were surgically treated for insertional Achilles tendinopathy and had at least 2 years of follow-up. An open longitudinal lateral approach was used for the operation, without violation of the Achilles tendon. Outcome evaluation included American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score, subjective patient satisfaction, mean time of return to competition (RTC), and rate of RTP. We defined RTC as return to an official match for at least 1 minute and RTP rate as the percentage of patients who were able to participate in at least 2 full seasons. A subgroup analysis was performed to compare the RTP and no-RTP groups. Results The AOFAS score improved significantly from preoperatively to the final follow-up (from 65.1 to 88.4; P < .001), and 75% of the patients reported good to excellent satisfaction. The mean time of RTC was 7.45 months (range, 4-18 months), and the rate of RTP was 60%. The RTP group had a significantly lower mean body mass index than did the no-RTP group (22.03 vs 23.86, respectively; P = .005) and faster mean RTC (5.0 vs 11.1 months, respectively; P < .001). Conclusion Open calcaneoplasty for surgical treatment of insertional Achilles tendinopathy with Haglund deformity in highly competitive professional athletes should be approached cautiously. Our patients had a 7.5-month recovery period before return to their first official match, and only 60% of the patients returned to their sports activity and participated in at least 2 full seasons. Lower body mass index and a faster RTC after surgery were related to longer functional maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Tai Lee
- Foot and Ankle Service, KT Lee's Orthopedic Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jegal Hyuk
- Bonebone Orthopedic Surgery Clinic, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Jae Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University, Hwaseoung, Republic of Korea
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Forsythe B, Lavoie-Gagne OZ, Forlenza EM, Diaz CC, Mascarenhas R. Return-to-Play Times and Player Performance After ACL Reconstruction in Elite UEFA Professional Soccer Players: A Matched-Cohort Analysis From 1999 to 2019. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211008892. [PMID: 34104662 PMCID: PMC8165856 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211008892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is one of the most common injuries afflicting soccer players and requires a lengthy recovery processes after reconstructive surgery. The impact of ACL reconstruction (ACLR) on return to play (RTP) time and player performance in professional soccer players remains poorly studied. Purpose/Hypothesis: To determine player performance and RTP rate and time after ACLR in elite professional soccer players with a retrospective matched-cohort analysis. We expected that the RTP time and rate will be similar to those of other professional-level athletes. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Included were 51 players from 1 of the 5 elite Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) soccer leagues who suffered a complete ACL rupture between 1999 and 2019. These athletes were matched by position, age, season of injury, seasons played, and height and compared to uninjured control players. Change in performance metrics for the 4 years after the season of injury were compared with metrics 1 season before injury. Univariate 2-group comparisons were performed using independent 2-group t tests; Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used when normality of distributions was violated. Results: Overall, 41 players (80%) returned to play after ACL rupture, with 6 (12%) experiencing a subsequent ipsilateral or contralateral ACL tear. The mean (±SD) RTP time for soccer players after ACLR was 216 ± 109 days (26 ± 18 games). Injured athletes played significantly fewer games and minutes per season and recorded inferior performances for 2 seasons after their injury (P < .001). However, the game performance of injured players equaled or exceeded that of their matched controls by season 3 after injury, with the exception of attackers, who demonstrated a continued decline in performance (P < .001). Conclusion: Results indicated that the mean RTP time for soccer players after ACLR is short in comparison with other major sports leagues (216 days). However, RTP rates were high, and rerupture rates were comparable with those of other sports. With the exception of attackers, player performance largely equaled or exceeded that of matched controls by the third postinjury season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Forsythe
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Division of Sports Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ophelie Z Lavoie-Gagne
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Enrico M Forlenza
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Connor C Diaz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Randy Mascarenhas
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Winnipeg Clinic, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Lesion Size May Predict Return to Play in Young Elite Athletes Undergoing Microfracture for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus. Arthroscopy 2021; 37:1612-1619. [PMID: 33359815 DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2020.12.206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the clinical and sports-related outcomes of arthroscopic microfracture (MFx) for osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT) in elite athletes. METHODS The athletes who underwent arthroscopic MFx for OLTs at our institution between January 2011 and September 2015 with minimum 2 years of follow-up were reviewed. The Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society, and visual analog scale pain score, time and rate of "return-to-competition" (RTC, return to an official match for at least 1 minute after treatment), and rate of "return-to-play" (RTP, participation in at least 2 entire seasons after treatment) were used to evaluate the outcomes. We compared athletes who were able to RTP with those who were not. RESULTS In total, 41 patients (mean age 19.34 ± 3.76 years) were included. The mean follow-up was 54.9 ± 13.72 months. In total, 36 patients had medial lesions, and 5 patients had lateral lesions. All subscales of preoperative Foot and Ankle Outcome Score were significantly improved at the final follow-up. The mean preoperative American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score of 74.46 ± 8.10 improved to 91.62 ± 2.99 (P < .001) at the final follow-up. The mean preoperative visual analog scale pain score of 5.44 ± 1.57 improved to 2.66 ± 1.04 (P < .001). All patients achieved RTC (100%) at mean time of 5.45 ± 3.18 months, and 74.4% of patients were able to RTP. The RTP-group showed significantly smaller lesions compared to the No-RTP group (71.52 ± 43.29 vs 107.00 ± 45.28 mm2, P = .009). The cut-off OLT size for predicting RTP was 84.0 mm2, with a sensitivity of 90.0% and specificity of 75.9%. CONCLUSIONS All athletes were able to RTC at average of 5.45 months after MFx for OLTs with minimal subchondral involvement, and 74.4% were able to RTP. The only prognostic variable for RTP was lesion size, and its predictive cut-off was 84.0 mm2. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV, Case series.
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Thevendran G, Kadakia AR, Giza E, Haverkamp D, D'Hooghe JP, Veljkovic A, Abdelatif NMN. Acute foot and ankle injuries and time return to sport. SICOT J 2021; 7:27. [PMID: 33861196 PMCID: PMC8051311 DOI: 10.1051/sicotj/2021024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Foot and ankle sports injuries encompass a wide spectrum of conditions from simple contusions or sprains that resolve within days to more severe injuries that change the trajectory of an athlete’s sporting career. If missed, severe injuries could lead to prolonged absence from the sport and therefore a catastrophic impact on future performance. In this article, we discuss the presentation of the commonest foot and ankle sports injuries and share recent evidence to support an accurate diagnosis and best management practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gowreeson Thevendran
- Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, 38 Irrawaddy Road, 329563, Singapore
| | - Anish R Kadakia
- Professor of Orthopedic Surgery, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, 60611 IL, USA
| | | | - Daniel Haverkamp
- Xpert Clinics Orthopedics, Laarderhoogtweg 12, 1101 EA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jonkheer Pieter D'Hooghe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, 29222 Doha, Qatar
| | - Andrea Veljkovic
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Paul's Hospital, Footbridge Clinic, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4 BC, Canada
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Della Villa F, Hägglund M, Della Villa S, Ekstrand J, Waldén M. High rate of second ACL injury following ACL reconstruction in male professional footballers: an updated longitudinal analysis from 118 players in the UEFA Elite Club Injury Study. Br J Sports Med 2021; 55:1350-1356. [PMID: 33846157 PMCID: PMC8606446 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2020-103555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background Studies on subsequent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures and career length in male professional football players after ACL reconstruction (ACLR) are scarce. Aim To investigate the second ACL injury rate, potential predictors of second ACL injury and the career length after ACLR. Study design Prospective cohort study. Setting Men’s professional football. Methods 118 players with index ACL injury were tracked longitudinally for subsequent ACL injury and career length over 16.9 years. Multivariable Cox regression analysis with HR was carried out to study potential predictors for subsequent ACL injury. Results Median follow-up was 4.3 (IQR 4.6) years after ACLR. The second ACL injury rate after return to training (RTT) was 17.8% (n=21), with 9.3% (n=11) to the ipsilateral and 8.5% (n=10) to the contralateral knee. Significant predictors for second ACL injury were a non-contact index ACL injury (HR 7.16, 95% CI 1.63 to 31.22) and an isolated index ACL injury (HR 2.73, 95% CI 1.06 to 7.07). In total, 11 of 26 players (42%) with a non-contact isolated index ACL injury suffered a second ACL injury. RTT time was not an independent predictor of second ACL injury, even though there was a tendency for a risk reduction with longer time to RTT. Median career length after ACLR was 4.1 (IQR 4.0) years and 60% of players were still playing at preinjury level 5 years after ACLR. Conclusions Almost one out of five top-level professional male football players sustained a second ACL injury following ACLR and return to football, with a considerably increased risk for players with a non-contact or isolated index injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Della Villa
- Education and Research Department, Isokinetic Medical Group, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Bologna, Italy
| | - Martin Hägglund
- Football Research Group, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden .,Unit of Physiotherapy, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Stefano Della Villa
- Education and Research Department, Isokinetic Medical Group, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Bologna, Italy
| | - Jan Ekstrand
- Football Research Group, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Unit of Community Medicine, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Markus Waldén
- Football Research Group, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Unit of Community Medicine, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Orthopaedics, Hässleholm-Kristianstad Hospitals, Hässleholm, Sweden
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34
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Johns W, Walley KC, Seedat R, Thordarson DB, Jackson B, Gonzalez T. Career Outlook and Performance of Professional Athletes After Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Systematic Review. Foot Ankle Int 2021; 42:495-509. [PMID: 33218267 DOI: 10.1177/1071100720969633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this systematic review is to examine the literature on Achilles tendon (AT) injuries in professional athletes to determine their rate of return to play (RTP), performance, and career outcome after AT rupture. METHODS A literature search of MEDLINE, Google Scholar, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases was performed. Included studies reported outcomes related to RTP (time and rate), durability and player participation, and player performance following AT rupture in professional athletes of the National Football League (NFL), National Basketball Association (NBA), Major League Baseball (MLB), and professional soccer leagues. RESULTS Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria for analysis. Athletes were able to return to professional sport participation 76% of the time, with mean time to RTP of 11 months following AT injury. Athletes experienced a decline in player efficiency ratings, power ratings, and sport- and position-specific statistics in the NFL, NBA, and professional soccer leagues compared to noninjured controls. RTP rate was significantly lower following AT rupture in comparison to athletes sustaining other common orthopedic injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament injuries, meniscal tears, and ankle fractures in both NFL and NBA athletes. CONCLUSION AT rupture prohibits nearly 25% of professional athletes from returning to their respective sport. Of those able to return to compete at a professional level, the mean time to RTP is 11 months-nearly double the estimated 6-month recovery for RTP in the general population. Furthermore, player performance and durability were curtailed following AT rupture. This review of the literature should be used to set evidence-based goals and establish realistic expectations for RTP for elite athletes following AT injuries. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III, systematic review.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Johns
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kempland C Walley
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Raees Seedat
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | | | - Ben Jackson
- School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Tyler Gonzalez
- School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
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35
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Capone G, Svedman S, Juthberg R, Edman G, Ackermann PW. Higher pyruvate levels after Achilles tendon rupture surgery could be used as a prognostic biomarker of an improved patient outcome. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2021; 29:300-309. [PMID: 32377796 PMCID: PMC7862190 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-020-06037-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The primary aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the metabolites lactate and pyruvate in the healing tendon after Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) and patient-reported outcome at 6 and 12 months. A secondary aim was to evaluate which underlying factors regulate lactate and pyruvate concentrations. METHODS Lactate and pyruvate concentrations were measured two weeks post-operatively in both the healing- and healthy Achilles tendon in 109 patients (90 men, 19 women; mean age 40 ± 7.9 years). Patient demographics, degree of physical activity, timing of surgery, operation time, patient-reported loading and step counts were investigated in relation to metabolite concentrations. At 6 and 12 months, the Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) questionnaire was used to assess patient outcome. RESULTS The mean number of steps taken during the post-operative days 1-10 was the only factor significantly related to the mean concentration of lactate (R2 = 0.34, p = 0.038), and pyruvate (R2 = 0.46, p = 0.006). Pyruvate was demonstrated as the only factor significantly associated with ATRS at both 6 months (R2 = 0.32, p = 0.003) and at 12 months (R2 = 0.37, p = 0.004) using multiple linear regression. CONCLUSION The mean concentration of pyruvate during early ATR healing may predict patient outcome at 6 and 12 months post-operatively and possibly be used as a biomarker of healing. Early mobilization with an increased number of steps taken is an important clinical strategy to improve the metabolite concentrations during healing. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Capone
- Integrative Orthopedic Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Orthopaedic and Traumatology Unit, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, EOC, Lugano, Switzerland. .,Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Simon Svedman
- Integrative Orthopedic Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden ,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Robin Juthberg
- Integrative Orthopedic Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Edman
- Department of Psychiatry, Tiohundra AB, Norrtälje, Sweden
| | - Paul W. Ackermann
- Integrative Orthopedic Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden ,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Peterson JG, Tjong VK, Mehta MP, Goyette BN, Patel M, Kadakia AR. A qualitative assessment of return to sport following Achilles tendon repair. J Orthop 2020; 23:46-51. [PMID: 33456215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jor.2020.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies have demonstrated successful return to sport rates following Achilles tendon rupture and repair. The purpose of this study is to understand the subjective intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors influencing an athlete's return to pre-injury level of sport following Achilles tendon repair. Qualitative, semi-structured interviews of 23 athletes who had undergone Achilles tendon repair were conducted and analyzed to derive codes, categories, and themes. Three major themes affecting return to sport were elucidated from the interviews: personal motivation, shift in focus, and confidence in healthcare team. These findings can direct healthcare teams on how to better guide patients post-operatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua G Peterson
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 North St. Clair Street, Suite 1350, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Vehniah K Tjong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 North St. Clair Street, Suite 1350, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Mitesh P Mehta
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 North St. Clair Street, Suite 1350, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Bailey N Goyette
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 North St. Clair Street, Suite 1350, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Milap Patel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 North St. Clair Street, Suite 1350, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Anish R Kadakia
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 North St. Clair Street, Suite 1350, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
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Allahabadi S, Amendola A, Lau BC. Optimizing Return to Play for Common and Controversial Foot and Ankle Sports Injuries. JBJS Rev 2020; 8:e20.00067. [PMID: 33405494 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.rvw.20.00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
» Surgical decision-making should consider factors to help optimize return to play for athletes with foot and ankle injuries, including injuries to the syndesmosis, the Achilles tendon, the fifth metatarsal, and the Lisfranc complex. Understanding influential factors on return to play may help orthopaedic surgeons counsel athletes and coaches on expectations for a timeline to return to play and performance metrics. » Outcomes after rigid and flexible fixation for syndesmotic injuries are generally favorable. Some data support an earlier return to sport and higher functional scores with flexible fixation, in addition to lower rates of reoperation and a decreased incidence of malreduction, particularly with deltoid repair, if indicated. » Minimally invasive techniques for Achilles tendon repair have been shown to have a decreased risk of wound complications. Athletes undergoing Achilles repair should expect to miss a full season of play to recover. » Athletes with fifth metatarsal fractures have better return-to-play outcomes with surgical management and can expect a high return-to-play rate within approximately 3 months of surgery. » Percutaneous treatment of Lisfranc injuries may expedite return to play relative to open procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Allahabadi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Annunziato Amendola
- Duke Sport Science Institute, Division of Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Brian C Lau
- Duke Sport Science Institute, Division of Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
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Tarantino D, Palermi S, Sirico F, Corrado B. Achilles Tendon Rupture: Mechanisms of Injury, Principles of Rehabilitation and Return to Play. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2020; 5:jfmk5040095. [PMID: 33467310 PMCID: PMC7804867 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk5040095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Achilles tendon is the thickest, strongest and largest tendon in the human body, but despite its size and tensile strength, it frequently gets injured. Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) mainly occur during sports activities, and their incidence has increased over the last few decades. Achilles tendon tears necessitate a prolonged recovery time, sometimes leaving long-term functional limitations. Treatment options include conservative treatment and surgical repair. There is no consensus on which is the best treatment for ATRs, and their management is still controversial. Limited scientific evidence is available for optimized rehabilitation regimen and on the course of recovery after ATRs. Furthermore, there are no universally accepted outcomes regarding the return to play (RTP) process. Therefore, the aim of this narrative review is to give an insight into the mechanism of injuries of an ATR, related principles of rehabilitation, and RTP.
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39
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Dai W, Leng X, Wang J, Hu X, Ao Y. Rehabilitation regimen for non-surgical treatment of Achilles tendon rupture: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. J Sci Med Sport 2020; 24:536-543. [PMID: 33388266 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare re-rupture rate, functional and quality-of-life outcomes, return to sports and work, complications, and resource use in patients treated non-surgically with different rehabilitation regimens for Achilles tendon rupture. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS We performed a systematic literature search in PubMed, Embase, Scopus and the Cochrane Library through May 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that included patients treated non-surgically for Achilles tendon rupture. All analyses were stratified according to rehabilitation protocols. RESULTS Eight RCTs with a total of 978 patients were included. There was no significant difference about re-rupture rate (P=0.38), return to sports (P=0.85) and work (P=0.33), functional outcome (P=0.34), quality of life (P=0.50), and complication rate (P=0.29) between early weight bearing with functional ankle motion and traditional ankle immobilisation with non-weight bearing. Similarly, no significant difference in re-rupture rate (P=0.88), return to sports (P=0.45) and work (P=0.20), functional outcome (P=0.26), and complication rate (P=0.49) was seen between ankle immobilisation with non-weight bearing and early weight bearing without functional ankle motion. CONCLUSIONS Traditional ankle immobilisation with non-weight bearing was not found to be superior to early weight bearing with or without functional ankle motion for patients treated non-surgically for Achilles tendon rupture. Clinicians may consider early weight bearing in functional brace as a safe and cost-effective alternative to non-weight bearing with plaster casting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Dai
- Institute of Sports Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory of Sports Injuries, Peking University Third Hospital, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Leng
- Medical Imaging Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqing Hu
- Institute of Sports Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory of Sports Injuries, Peking University Third Hospital, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yingfang Ao
- Institute of Sports Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory of Sports Injuries, Peking University Third Hospital, People's Republic of China.
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40
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Holzgrefe RE, McCarthy TP, Wilson JM, Bariteau JT, Labib S. Association of Strength Following Achilles Tendon Repair With Return to Same Level of Play in High-Level Athletes. Foot Ankle Int 2020; 41:1041-1048. [PMID: 32660267 DOI: 10.1177/1071100720936276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rupture of the Achilles tendon is a common injury and the ability to return to the same level of sporting activity after treatment is an important outcome for patients. The objective of the current study was to examine the relationship between ankle strength and the ability to return to previous level of play following operative repair of an Achilles tendon rupture. METHODS Patients aged 18 to 50 years at a minimum 1 year postoperation from surgical repair of an Achilles tendon returned for a study visit. Patients reported both preinjury and current activity level using the 10-point Tegner Activity Level Scale. Isokinetic strength testing was performed and the Isokinetic Strength Score (ISS) was calculated. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between ISS and return to play by Tegner level. A total of 36 patients (mean 35 years old, 72% male) completed the study protocol at a mean 1.8 years postoperatively. RESULTS Logistic regression revealed no association between ISS and return to play in the complete cohort. Subgroup analysis revealed that for 20 high-level athletes (preinjury Tegner ≥ 7), for every 16-point increase in ISS, the odds ratio (OR) for return to same level of play was 8.3 (P = .055) and the OR for return to within 1 Tegner level of play was 6.3 (P = .043). There was no association between ISS and return to previous activity in the 16 patients with lower preinjury levels of activity. CONCLUSION Improved ankle strength was associated with return to previous level of activity in patients participating in high-level athletic activity, suggesting that these patients were more dependent on recovery of ankle strength in the postoperative time period in order to return to their previous high level of play. In contrast, regaining strength may be less important for returning to normal activities for less active patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III, comparative series.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy P McCarthy
- USAF, Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Landstuhl, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
| | - Jacob M Wilson
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jason T Bariteau
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sameh Labib
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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41
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Lerch TD, Schwinghammer A, Schmaranzer F, Anwander H, Ecker TM, Schmid T, Weber M, Krause F. Return to Sport and Patient Satisfaction at 5-Year Follow-up After Nonoperative Treatment for Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture. Foot Ankle Int 2020; 41:784-792. [PMID: 32543889 DOI: 10.1177/1071100720919029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is controversy whether nonoperative or operative treatment for Achilles tendon rupture is superior. It is unknown if patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture return to previous sports activity. The purpose of this study was to assess 5-year return to sport and subjective satisfaction, minimum 1-year functional outcomes, and complications in patients following nonoperative treatment of Achilles tendon rupture with early weightbearing rehabilitation. METHODS An institutional review board-approved, retrospective observational study involving 89 patients was performed. Out of 114 consecutive patients, 89 (78%) responded to questionnaires for sports activity. Nonoperative treatment consisted of an equinus cast and rehabilitation boot that enabled early weightbearing. Sports activity at 1-year and 5-year follow-up was compared to the prerupture status. Based on the prerupture Tegner Activity Scale (TAS), patients were divided into low-level (<6) and high-level (≥6) activity groups. Clinical assessment at minimum 1-year follow-up was performed with the Thermann score. Mean clinical follow-up was 34 ± 23 months. RESULTS Overall, >70% of the patients returned to their previous sports activity level after a nonoperative early weightbearing treatment. Return-to-sport rate was significantly (P = .029) higher for patients in the low-level activity group (91%) compared to patients (67%) in the high-level activity group at 5-year follow-up. Subjective satisfaction with treatment was good in both groups (93% and 96%, respectively). The mean Thermann score did not differ between the 2 groups at 1-year follow-up. There were 11 reruptures, 5 deep venous thromboses, and 1 case of complex regional pain syndrome. CONCLUSION Nonoperative treatment for Achilles tendon rupture yielded good functional outcome and high patient satisfaction. For patients with a high preinjury activity level, return to previous sporting level (assessed by TAS) was possible in 67% of the patients compared to >90% of patients with low preinjury activity level. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III, retrospective comparative series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Till D Lerch
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Diagnostic, Interventional and Pediatric Radiology, University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Schwinghammer
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Universitätsklinikum St. Pölten, Sankt Pölten, Austria
| | - Florian Schmaranzer
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Diagnostic, Interventional and Pediatric Radiology, University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Helen Anwander
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Timo M Ecker
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Timo Schmid
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Fabian Krause
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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