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Peters MJ, Walsh K, Day C, Younger A, Salat P, Penner M, Wing K, Glazebrook M, Veljkovic A. Level of Evidence for the Treatment of Chronic Noninsertional Achilles Tendinopathy. Foot Ankle Spec 2023; 16:406-426. [PMID: 33749355 PMCID: PMC10422862 DOI: 10.1177/19386400211001261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy affects both athletes and sedentary individuals, and its incidence is rising. Conservative management is the mainstay of treatment, but a variety of operative techniques have been described to treat recalcitrant cases. We seek to outline the current available evidence for surgical management of noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS A systematic review was performed using the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases, and all articles were reviewed by at least 2 authors. Each article was assigned a level of evidence in accordance with the standards of Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. The available data were reviewed and a level of evidence was assigned to each intervention of interest, based on the revised classifications of Wright. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION A total of 46 articles met inclusion and exclusion criteria. There is fair evidence (grade B) in support of open debridement with 1 level II study, 1 level III study, and 8 level IV studies. There is fair evidence (grade B) in support of arthroscopic or minimally invasive surgical techniques. There is poor evidence (grade C) in support of flexor hallucis longus transfer, longitudinal tenotomy, peritenolysis, gastrocnemius recession, and plantaris excision. There is insufficient evidence (grade I) to provide a recommendation about other surgical treatment methods for noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy.Levels of Evidence: Level III: Systematic review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kellen Walsh
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Chris Day
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | | | - Murray Penner
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kevin Wing
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Phisitkul P, Mansur NSB, Netto CDC. Failed Surgery for Achilles Tendinopathy. Foot Ankle Clin 2022; 27:431-455. [PMID: 35680298 DOI: 10.1016/j.fcl.2021.11.027] [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: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Treatments of Achilles tendinopathy continue to evolve. The body of literature is inadequate to provide a comprehensive guide to evaluation and treat failed surgeries. Issues related to failed surgical treatment may be divided into infection/wound issue, mechanical failure, and persistent pain. Awareness of the potential problems described in this article will allow surgeons to have a foundation in clinical assessment and making accurate diagnoses. Various surgical treatment options are available and should be executed carefully to treat individualized patient conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phinit Phisitkul
- Tri-state Specialists, LLP, 2730 Pierce Street #300, Sioux City, IA 51104, USA.
| | - Nacime Salomao Barbachan Mansur
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, John PappaJohn Pavillion (JPP), Room 01066, Lower Level, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Cesar de Cesar Netto
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, John PappaJohn Pavillion (JPP), Room 01066, Lower Level, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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The Achilles Tendon: Imaging Diagnoses and Image-Guided Interventions- AJR Expert Panel Narrative Review. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2022; 219:355-368. [PMID: 35506554 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.22.27632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The Achilles tendon is commonly affected by both chronic repetitive overuse and traumatic injuries. Achilles tendon injuries can potentially affect any individual but have a particularly high incidence in professional athletes. Appropriate imaging evaluation and diagnosis are paramount to guiding appropriate management. In this AJR Expert Panel Narrative Review, we discuss the role of various imaging modalities (particularly ultrasound and MRI) in the assessment of Achilles tendon pathology, focusing on modalities' relative advantages and technical considerations. We describe the most common diagnoses affecting the Achilles tendon and adjacent structures, highlighting key imaging findings and providing representative examples. Various image-guided interventions that may be employed in the management of Achilles tendon pathology are also reviewed, including high-volume injection, tendon fenestration, prolotherapy, and corticosteroid injection. The limited evidence supporting such interventions are summarized, noting an overall paucity of large-scale studies showing benefit. Finally, a series of consensus statements by the panel on imaging and image-guided intervention for Achilles tendon pathology are provided.
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Al-Ani Z, Meknas D, Kartus JT, Lyngedal Ø, Meknas K. Radiofrequency Microtenotomy or Physical Therapy for Achilles Tendinopathy: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial. Orthop J Sports Med 2022; 9:23259671211062555. [PMID: 34988234 PMCID: PMC8721382 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211062555] [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: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Achilles tendinopathy is a painful disorder, and various treatment options are available. Bipolar radiofrequency microtenotomy (RFM) has shown promising results in treating tendinosis. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose was to compare the results between treatment with bipolar RFM and physical therapy (PT) for patients with midportion Achilles tendinopathy. It was hypothesized that RFM would be equivalent or superior to PT. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: A total of 38 patients with midportion Achilles tendinopathy were evaluated for 2 years. The patients were randomized to receive either RFM or PT. There were 20 patients in the RFM group and 18 patients in the PT group. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS). The degree of tendinosis was evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the affected ankle performed before intervention and 2 years after intervention. Results: In both groups, the VAS scores at the 2-year follow-up were significantly improved compared with preintervention: from 7.2 ± 1.5 to 1.0 ± 1.4 for the RFM group and from 5.9 ± 1.3 to 3.1 ± 1.8 for the PT group (P < .01 for both). Compared with the PT group, the RFM group had significantly better VAS scores at both the 1- and 2-year follow-ups (P < .01 for both) and better scores on 4 of the 5 FAOS subscales at the 2-year follow-up (P < .01 for all). MRI revealed an improvement in the tendinosis score in both groups, without any significant difference between the groups. Conclusion: In this randomized study, the clinical assessments revealed significant improvements in the VAS, FAOS, and tendinosis score as seen on MRI 2 years after intervention with either RFM or PT in patients with midportion Achilles tendinopathy. The improvement was significantly better in the RFM group with regard to VAS and FAOS, but not in the MRI appearance. Registration: NCT03274557 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeiad Al-Ani
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Dana Meknas
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jüri-Toomas Kartus
- Institution of Clinical Science, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Research and Development, NU Hospital Group, Trollhättan, Sweden.,Department of Orthopedics, NU Hospital Group, Trollhättan, Sweden
| | - Øyvind Lyngedal
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Khaled Meknas
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Orthopedics Research Group, Institute of Clinical Medicine, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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Waśniewska A, Olewnik Ł, Diogo R, Polguj M. Morphological variability of the plantaris muscle origin in human fetuses. Ann Anat 2021; 239:151794. [PMID: 34217832 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2021.151794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The plantaris muscle (PM) is a small, fusiform muscle located between the gastrocnemius muscle (GM) and soleus muscle (SM). PM supports movements of the knee and ankle. This muscle presents a great variability, and also has a high clinical significance. Nevertheless, data concerns morphology and morphometry of the origin of PM in human fetuses are scarce. MATERIAL AND METHODS Forty-seven spontaneously-aborted human fetuses (23 male, 24 female) aged 18-38 weeks of gestation were examined. The morphology and morphometry of the origin of PM were evaluated. RESULTS PM was present in 74 lower limbs (78.7%), and absent on 20 limbs (21.3%). We distinguished VI types of the proximal attachment of PM. Belly width and thickness, as well as thickness of the tendon and MT junction differed significantly between types of PM origin. CONCLUSIONS We distinguished six (I-VI) types of origin of PM in human fetuses. The most common type was type Ia, characterized by an attachment to the lateral head of GM, lateral femoral condyle and to the knee joint capsule. Our results of PM anatomical variation in fetuses will pave the way for detailed comparisons with studies carried out on adult cadavers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Waśniewska
- Department of Normal and Clinical Anatomy, Chair of Anatomy and Histology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Łukasz Olewnik
- Department of Anatomical Dissection and Donation, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Rui Diogo
- Department of Anatomy, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Michał Polguj
- Department of Normal and Clinical Anatomy, Chair of Anatomy and Histology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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Masci L, Neal BS, Wynter Bee W, Spang C, Alfredson H. Achilles Scraping and Plantaris Tendon Removal Improves Pain and Tendon Structure in Patients with Mid-Portion Achilles Tendinopathy-A 24 Month Follow-Up Case Series. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10122695. [PMID: 34207436 PMCID: PMC8233944 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10122695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Studies have demonstrated that a sub-group of patients with medial Achilles pain exhibit Achilles tendinopathy with plantaris tendon involvement. This clinical condition is characterised by structural relationships and functional interference between the two tendons, resulting in compressive or shearing forces. Surgical plantaris tendon removal together with an Achilles scraping procedure has demonstrated positive short-term clinical results. The aim of this case series was to determine the long-term outcomes on pain and Achilles tendon structure. Methods: 18 consecutive patients (13 males; 5 females; mean age 39 years; mean symptom duration 28 months), of which three were elites, were included. Clinical examination, b-mode ultrasound (US) and Ultrasound Tissue Characterisation (UTC) confirmed medial Achilles tendon pain and tenderness, medial Achilles tendinopathy plus a plantaris tendon located close to the medial side of the Achilles tendon. Patients underwent US-guided local Achilles scraping and plantaris tendon removal followed by a structured rehabilitation program. Outcomes were VISA-A score for pain and function and UTC for Achilles structure. Results: 16 of 18 patients completed the 24 months follow-up. Mean VISA-A scores increased from 58.2 (±15.9) to 92.0 (±9.2) (mean difference = 33.8, 95% CI 25.2, 42.8, p < 0.01). There was an improvement in Achilles structure with mean organised echo pixels (UTC type I+II, in %) increasing from 79.9 (±11.5) to 86.4 (±10.0) (mean difference = 6.5%, 95% CI 0.80, 13.80, p =0.01), exceeding the 3.4% minimum detectable change. All 16 patients reported satisfaction with the procedure and 14 returned to pre-injury activity levels. There were no reported complications. Conclusions: Improved pain, function and tendon structure were observed 24 months after treatment with Achilles scraping and plantaris excision. The improvement in structure on the medial side of the Achilles after plantaris removal indicates that compression from the plantaris tendon might be an important presenting factor in this sub-group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Masci
- Institute of Sports Exercise and Health, University College Hospital London, London W1T 7HA, UK; (L.M.); (W.W.B.); (H.A.)
- Sports & Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4DG, UK;
| | - Bradley Stephen Neal
- Sports & Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4DG, UK;
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - William Wynter Bee
- Institute of Sports Exercise and Health, University College Hospital London, London W1T 7HA, UK; (L.M.); (W.W.B.); (H.A.)
| | - Christoph Spang
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Anatomy Section, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
- Private Orthopaedic Spine Center, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Håkan Alfredson
- Institute of Sports Exercise and Health, University College Hospital London, London W1T 7HA, UK; (L.M.); (W.W.B.); (H.A.)
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Sports Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
- Pure Sports Medicine, Canary Wharf, London E14 4QT, UK
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Reider B. Achilles' Heel. Am J Sports Med 2021; 49:1707-1710. [PMID: 34081558 DOI: 10.1177/03635465211018217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Lee AH, Elliott DM. Multi-Scale Loading and Damage Mechanisms of Plantaris and Rat Tail Tendons. J Orthop Res 2019; 37:1827-1837. [PMID: 30977538 PMCID: PMC6790141 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Tendinopathy, degeneration of the tendon that leads to pain and dysfunction, is common in both sports and occupational settings, but multi-scale mechanisms for tendinopathy are still unknown. We recently showed that micro-scale sliding (shear) is responsible for both load transfer and damage mechanisms in the rat tail tendon; however, the rat tail tendon is a specialized non-load-bearing tendon, and thus the load transfer and damage mechanisms are still unknown for load-bearing tendons. The objective of this study was to investigate the load transfer and damage mechanisms of load-bearing tendons using the rat plantaris tendon. We demonstrated that micro-scale sliding is a key component for both mechanisms in the plantaris tendon, similar to the tail tendon. Namely, the micro-scale sliding was correlated with applied strain, demonstrating that load was transferred via micro-scale sliding in the plantaris and tail tendons. In addition, while the micro-scale strain fully recovered, the micro-scale sliding was non-recoverable and strain-dependent, and correlated with tissue-scale mechanical parameters. When the applied strain was normalized, the % magnitudes of non-recoverable sliding was similar between the plantaris and tail tendons. Statement of clinical significance: Understanding the mechanisms responsible for the pathogenesis and progression of tendinopathy can improve prevention and rehabilitation strategies and guide therapies and the design of engineered constructs. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:1827-1837, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea H. Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware
| | - Dawn M. Elliott
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware
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Prevalence of Coexistent Plantaris Tendon Pathology in Patients with Mid-Portion Achilles Pathology: A Retrospective MRI Study. Sports (Basel) 2019; 7:sports7050124. [PMID: 31121856 PMCID: PMC6571766 DOI: 10.3390/sports7050124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Co-existence of Plantaris tendinopathy (PT) in patients with mid-Achilles tendinopathy (Mid-AT) is of clinical significance. This study aims to describe the MRI-based pathological characteristics of co-existing PT and Mid-AT. One-hundred MRI studies of patients diagnosed with Mid-AT were retrospectively analysed by an experienced musculoskeletal radiologist. Presence or absence of a Plantaris tendon, co-existing PT with Mid-AT, insertional characteristics of Plantaris tendon, and maximum anteroposterior thickness of the tendon in Mid-AT (axial images) were evaluated. When PT co-existed with Mid-AT, the location of the tendon pathologies in relation to calcaneal insertion was assessed (sagittal images) and their association was analysed using the coefficient of variation (CV) and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Plantaris was present in 84 cases (84%), and Mid-AT and PT co-existed in 10 cases (10%). A greater variability in the location of Plantaris pathology (CV = 42%) than Achilles tendinopathy (CV = 42%) was observed. The correlation coefficient also revealed a low and non-significant association between the location of two pathologies when they exist together (r = +0.06; p = 0.88). Clinical evaluation of Achilles tendon pain needs careful consideration into the possible co-existence of Plantaris pathology. The considerable difference observed in the location of PT and Mid-AT suggest possible isolated pathologies and differentials for Achilles tendon pain.
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10
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Abstract
Although the incidence of midportion Achilles tendinopathy is under 1% in the general population, it is quite a common disease in runners that is characterized by the symptom triad of pain, swelling and impaired physical performance. Pain and swelling are located in the area 2 to 7 cm proximal the tendon insertion onto the calcaneus.Diagnosis is made by adequate clinical symptoms and corresponding findings in sonography and/or magnetic resonance imaging scans. Histopathologically, mostly degenerative changes in the tendon structure are found, sometimes accompanied by intra- and paratendinous inflammation.Treatment options are conservative or surgical, but conservative ones should be tried first. The best evidence is available for eccentric exercise protocols, which represent the gold standard in conservative treatment options, followed by extracorporal shockwave (ECSW) therapy and corticoid injections.In about 25% of all cases, because of unsatisfactory nonoperative treatment results, surgery is recommended. Open, minimally invasive as well as tenoscopic methods exist, which show patients' satisfactory rates of about 80%. The return to sport or full physical performance is variable and may take up to 18 months for both treatment regimens.
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13
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Mattiussi G, Moreno C. Percutaneous Electrochemical Debridement of the Plantaris Tendon. J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 2018; 108:437-441. [PMID: 34670342 DOI: 10.7547/17-078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Plantaris tendon disorders are a well-known source of midportion Achilles tendinopathy. Plantaris tendon thickening and fibrous tissue formation between the tendons are the histologic abnormalities that are typically observed. Surgical approaches (scraping of the Achilles medial and ventral paratendinous tissues and excision of the plantaris tendon) have already shown good clinical outcomes; despite this, the cost-benefit ratio of these interventions may be unfavorable, and their accessibility is limited. Percutaneous needle electrolysis is a minimally invasive ablative technique increasingly being considered for the treatment of tendinopathies and associated conditions. Herein we introduce a novel procedure to treat plantaris tendon-related midportion Achilles tendinopathy. The procedure starts with the ultrasound-guided insertion of an uncoated needle (diameter, 0.30-0.40 mm; length, 30 mm) between the plantaris and Achilles tendons. Subsequently, galvanic current (intensity, 2 mA) is locally transferred, which induces instant nonthermal electrochemical ablation of the intertendinous tissues in close proximity to the needle, finally debriding the plantaris tendon. To further promote its release, the second part of the procedure involves partial tenotomy of the lateral peripheral aspects of the plantaris tendon. Usually, the session does not exceed 30 min. Percutaneous needle electrolysis may be considered as a valid alternative to surgery. The outpatient procedure presented herein is, in fact, safe and quick to perform. In addition, long suspension of working or sporting activities after treatment is not required. Future investigations are needed to ascertain the short- and long-term therapeutic outcomes of plantaris tendon-related midportion Achilles tendinopathy treatment, in particular by comparing them with those obtained with other mini-invasive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos Moreno
- Medical Services, Udinese Football Club, Udine, Italy
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14
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Saxena A, Hong BK, Hofer D. Peritenolysis and Debridement for Main Body (Mid-Portion) Achilles Tendinopathy in Athletic Patients: Results of 107 Procedures. J Foot Ankle Surg 2018; 56:922-928. [PMID: 28579127 DOI: 10.1053/j.jfas.2017.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Achilles tendinopathy in the main body (mid-portion) of the tendon is a common pathologic finding among active and athletic populations and can be debilitating without proper and adequate treatment. Numerous surgical approaches for this common pathologic finding have been reported, with variable outcomes. We evaluated the surgical outcomes of peritenolysis and debridement of main body Achilles tendinopathy among athletic populations using the return to activity (RTA) and decreased desired activity (DDA) as our primary outcome measures. A total of 100 patients underwent 107 procedures by the senior author (A.S.) from January 2001 through December 2015 met the inclusion criteria, 65 (65%) of whom were runners. The mean follow-up duration was 106.6 ± 55.5 months from the index procedure, and the mean interval necessary to RTA for the entire group was 10.9 ± 5.3 weeks. The average RTA after debridement was 14.1 ± 5.2 weeks and after peritenolysis was 7.3 ± 2.0 weeks (p = .00001). Of the 100 patients, 3 (3%) had experienced a DDA at the last follow-up visit. With >97% of the patients able to return to their desired activities, we have concluded that peritenolysis and debridement are favorable surgical techniques for main body Achilles tendinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amol Saxena
- Fellowship Director, Department of Sports Medicine, Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Palo Alto, CA.
| | - Brian K Hong
- Fellow, Department of Sports Medicine, Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Deann Hofer
- Fellow, Department of Sports Medicine, Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Palo Alto, CA
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Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2018. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2018; 48:A1-A38. [PMID: 29712543 DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2018.0302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The Orthopaedic Section of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has an ongoing effort to create evidence-based practice guidelines for orthopaedic physical therapy management of patients with musculoskeletal impairments described in the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). The purpose of these revised clinical practice guidelines is to review recent peer-reviewed literature and make recommendations related to midportion Achilles tendinopathy. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2018;48(5):A1-A38. doi:10.2519/jospt.2018.0302.
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Stephen JM, Marsland D, Masci L, Calder JDF, Daou HE. Differential Motion and Compression Between the Plantaris and Achilles Tendons: A Contributing Factor to Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy? Am J Sports Med 2018; 46:955-960. [PMID: 29253349 DOI: 10.1177/0363546517745291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The plantaris tendon (PT) has been thought to contribute to symptoms in a proportion of patients with Achilles midportion tendinopathy, with symptoms improving after PT excision. HYPOTHESIS There is compression and differential movement between the PT and Achilles tendon (AT) during ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion. STUDY DESIGN Descriptive laboratory study. METHODS Eighteen fresh-frozen cadaveric ankles (mean ± SD age: 35 ± 7 years, range = 27-48 years; men, n = 9) were mounted in a customized testing rig, where the tibia was fixed but the forefoot could be moved freely. A Steinmann pin was drilled through the calcaneus, enabling a valgus torque to be applied. The soleus, gastrocnemius, and plantaris muscles were loaded with 63 N with a weighted pulley system. The test area was 40 to 80 mm above the os calcis, corresponding to where the injury is observed clinically. Medially, the AT and PT were exposed, and a calibrated flexible pressure sensor was inserted between the tendons. Pressure readings were recorded with the ankle in full dorsiflexion, full plantarflexion, and plantargrade and repeated in these positions with a 5 N·m torque, simulating increased hindfoot valgus. The pressure sensor was removed and the PT and AT marked with ink at the same level, with the foot held in neutral rotation and plantargrade. Videos and photographs were taken to assess differential motion between the tendons. After testing, specimens were dissected to identify the PT insertion. One-way analysis of variance and paired t tests were performed to make comparisons. RESULTS The PT tendons with an insertion separate from the AT demonstrated greater differential motion through range (14 ± 4 mm) when compared with those directly adherent to the AT (2 ± 2 mm) ( P < .001). Mean pressure between the PT and AT rose in terminal plantarflexion for all specimens ( P < .001) and was more pronounced with hindfoot valgus ( P < .001). CONCLUSION The PT inserting directly into the calcaneus resulted in significantly greater differential motion as compared with the AT. Tendon compression was elevated in terminal plantarflexion, suggesting that adapting rehabilitation tendon-loading programs to avoid this position may be beneficial. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The insertion pattern of the PT may be a factor in plantaris-related midportion Achilles tendinopathy. Terminal range plantarflexion and hindfoot valgus both increased AT and PT compression, suggesting that these should be avoided in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna M Stephen
- Fortius Clinic, London, UK.,The Biomechanics Group, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Daniel Marsland
- The Biomechanics Group, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London, UK
| | | | - James D F Calder
- Fortius Clinic, London, UK.,The Biomechanics Group, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Hadi El Daou
- The Biomechanics Group, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London, UK
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Paratendinous Scraping and Excision of Plantaris for Achilles Tendinopathy. TECHNIQUES IN FOOT AND ANKLE SURGERY 2018. [DOI: 10.1097/btf.0000000000000168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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