scholarly journals Radiofrequency Microtenotomy or Physical Therapy for Achilles Tendinopathy: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (12) ◽  
pp. 232596712110625
Author(s):  
Zeiad Al-Ani ◽  
Dana Meknas ◽  
Jüri-Toomas Kartus ◽  
Øyvind Lyngedal ◽  
Khaled Meknas

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).

2020 ◽  
Vol 47 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Reem EL-Mallah ◽  
Enas A. Elattar

Abstract Background Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is considered the commonest tendon pathology, occurring mainly in athletes. Different conservative treatment options have been introduced but with short-term effects; however, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) and mesotherapy (MT) injections were claimed to provide longer effects and could be used in cases failure of response to conservative treatments. The objective of our prospective 12-week study was to compare the effect of ESWT and MT on chronic Achilles tendinopathy in athletes by both clinical and ultrasonographical assessment. Results Forty patients with chronic AT diagnosed clinically and with high-resolution ultrasound (US) randomly allocated in two groups first received weekly ESWT session, and the other group underwent weekly MT sessions for 4 consecutive weeks. Both groups improved during the treatment and follow-up period. The mean visual analogue score (VAS) decreased in both the ESWT group and the MT group. Mean American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score and VAS scores were not significantly different between ESWT and MT groups at the 4th and the 12th week of follow-up. However, US assessment significantly improved after 12 weeks in the ESWT group (as regards tendon thickness, calcifications, and Doppler signal), and for the mesotherapy group, there was the only improvement of tendon thickness. Conclusion ESWT showed improvement of pain and inflammation and calcifications of AT than MT injections, which was documented by US improved findings at week 12 follow up.


2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011419S0037
Author(s):  
Daniel Scott ◽  
John Steele ◽  
Amanda Fletcher ◽  
Selene Parekh

Category: Ankle, Ankle Arthritis, Hindfoot, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Patients with talar avascular necrosis have limited treatment options to manage their symptoms. Historically, surgical options have been limited and can leave patients with little ankle motion and have high failure rates. The use of custom 3D printed total talar replacements (TTR) has arisen as a treatment option for these patients, possibly allowing for better preservation of hind-foot motion. Patients undergoing TTR will demonstrate a statistically significant improvement in FAOS scores at one year after surgery. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 15 patients who underwent a TTR over 2 years. Patient outcomes were reviewed including age, sex, comorbidities, etiology of talar pathology, number and type of prior surgeries, pre-operative and post-operative weight bearing radiographs, as well as FAOS and VAS scores, and range of motion. Data analysis performed with student T-test and multivariate regression. Results: Results: FAOS scores showed statistically significant improvements post-operatively as compared to pre-operative scores. There was a statistically significant decrease in VAS pain scores from 7.0 pre-operatively to 3.4 post operatively. There was no significant difference in pre-operative and post-operative coronal and sagittal alignment on weight bearing radiographs. All FAOS sub-score shows statistically significant improvements, with the exception of the sports/recreation sub-scale, did show a trend towards improved outcomes (p =0.19). Average follow-up was 12.8 months. Conclusion: Our hypothesis was confirmed that these patients show statistically significant improvements in AOFS and VAS scores at 1 year. Sagittal and coronal alignment was well maintained at an average of 1 year following surgery. TTR represents an exciting treatment options for patients with talar avascular necrosis, though longer-term follow-up is needed.


2019 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kawin K. W. Lee ◽  
Samuel K. K. Ling ◽  
Patrick S. H. Yung

Abstract Background Achilles tendinopathy is one of the most common overuse injuries in running, and forefoot pronation, seen in flatfeet participants, has been proposed to cause additional loading across the Achilles tendon. Foot orthoses are one of the common and effective conservative treatment prescribed for Achilles tendinopathy, it works by correcting the biomechanical malalignment and reducing tendon load. Previous studies have shown reduction of Achilles Tendon load (ATL) during running by using customized arch support orthosis (CASO) or an orthotic heel lift (HL). However, there are still little biomechanical evidence and comparative studies to guide orthotic prescriptions for Achilles tendinopathy management. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the two currently employed orthotic treatment options for Achilles tendinopathy: CASO and HL for the reduction of ATL and Achilles tendon loading rate (ATLR) in recreational runners with flatfeet. Methods Twelve participants were recruited and run along the runway in the laboratory for three conditions: (1) without orthoses, (2) with CASO (3) with HL. Kinematic and kinetic data were recorded by 3D motion capturing system and force platform. Ankle joint moments and ATL were computed and compared within the three conditions. Results Participants who ran with CASO (p = 0.001, d = 0.43) or HL (p = 0.001, d = 0.48) associated with a significant reduction in ATL when compared to without orthotics while there was no significant difference between the two types of orthoses, the mean peak ATL of CASO was slightly lower than HL. Regarding the ATLR, both orthoses, CASO (p = 0.003, d = 0.93) and HL (p = 0.004, d = 0.78), exhibited significant lower value than the control but similarly, no significant difference was noted between them in which the use of CASO yielded a slightly lower loading rate than that of HL. Conclusions Both CASO and HL were able to cause a significant reduction in peak ATL and ATLR comparing to without orthotics condition. There were subtle but no statistically significant differences in the biomechanical effects between the two types of orthoses. The findings help to quantify the effect of CASO and HL on load reduction of Achilles tendon and suggests that foot orthoses may serve to prevent the incidence of Achilles tendon pathologies. Trial registration NCT04003870 on clinicaltrials.gov 1 July 2019.


2018 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 205-210 ◽  
Author(s):  
Virendra Singh ◽  
Neeraj Kumar ◽  
Amrish Bhagol ◽  
Neha Jajodia

The aim of the study is to evaluate closed and open treatment in the management of unilateral displaced mandibular subcondylar fractures. Twenty patients with unilateral subcondylar fractures of the mandible were evaluated with degree of displacement of more than 20 degrees and ramal height shortening of more than 10 mm. They were informed of the need for 6-month follow-up. Patients were thoroughly informed, explaining the possible advantages and disadvantages of the open and closed treatment options. Radiographic parameters included the level of fracture, deviation of fragment, and ramal height shortening. Correct anatomical reduction is achieved by open treatment as compared with closed treatment. Regarding pain, mouth opening, and lateral excursion movement, statistically significant difference was found in both groups ( p < 0.01). In radiographic assessment of ramal height shortening and fracture displacement, statistically significant difference was found ( p < 0.01). And no significant complication is found in both treatment groups. The results of this study favor the open treatment for the management of displaced subcondylar fractures. However, the treatment results are also acceptable for closed group.


2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kawin KW Lee ◽  
Samuel Ka Kin Ling ◽  
Patrick SH Yung

Abstract Achilles tendinopathy is one of the most common overuse injuries in running, and forefoot pronation, seen in flatfeet participants, has been proposed to cause additional loading across the Achilles tendon. Foot orthoses are one of the common and effective conservative treatment prescribed for Achilles tendinopathy, it works by correcting the biomechanical malalignment and reducing tendon load. Previous studies have shown reduction of Achilles Tendon load (ATL) during running by using customized arch support orthosis (CASO) or an orthotic heel lift (HL). However, there are still little biomechanical evidence and comparative studies to guide orthotic prescriptions for Achilles tendinopathy management. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the two currently employed orthotic treatment options for Achilles tendinopathy: CASO and HL for the reduction of ATL and Achilles tendon loading rate (ATLR) in recreational runners with flatfeet. Methods: 12 participants were recruited and run along the runway in the laboratory for three conditions: (1) without orthoses, (2) with CASO (3) with HL. Kinematic and kinetic data were recorded by 3D motion capturing system and force platform. Ankle joint moments and ATL were computed and compared within the three conditions. Results: Participants who ran with CASO (p=0.001, d=0.43) or HL (p=0.001, d=0.48) associated with a significant reduction in ATL when compared to without orthotics. There was no difference between the two types of orthoses, the mean peak ATL of CASO was slightly lower than HL. Regarding the ATLR, both orthoses, CASO (p=0.003, d= 0.93) and HL (p=0.004, d= 0.78), exhibited significant lower value than the control but similarly, no significant difference was noted between them in which the use of CASO yielded a slightly lower loading rate than that of HL. Conclusion: Both CASO and HL were able to cause a significant reduction in peak ATL and ATLR comparing to without orthotics condition. There were subtle but no statistically significant differences in the biomechanical effects between the two types of orthoses. The findings help to quantify the effect of CASO and HL on load reduction of Achilles tendon and suggests that foot orthoses may serve to prevent the incidence of Achilles tendon pathologies.


2021 ◽  
Vol 27 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mamdouh M. El-Hawy ◽  
Amr Eldakhakhny ◽  
Ahmed AbdEllatif ◽  
Emad A. Salem ◽  
Ahmed Ragab ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Different treatment options are available for the management of BPH. Our study aimed to compare the surgical outcomes of a holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) and a bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate (Bipolar-TURP) after 2 years. Methods Our prospective randomized study included 114 patients: 55 patients underwent HoLEP procedure and 59 patients underwent bipolar TURP procedure. All patients underwent a complete preoperative assessment and a physical examination. The postoperative follow-up data included Q max and IPSS recordings at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months and PVR urinary volume recordings at 6 and 12 months. Any postoperative complications were also recorded. Results There were no statistically significant differences between both groups regarding IPSS and Q max scores at one and 24 months postoperative. Also, there were no statistically significant differences between both groups regarding postoperative PVR at 6 and 12 months. One patient in the HoLEP group developed total incontinence after surgery. Conclusion Our study did not show a significant difference between HoLEP and bipolar TURP regarding postoperative Q max and IPSS scores at 24 months of follow-up.


2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011420S0046
Author(s):  
Wesley Stroud ◽  
Bradley Alexander ◽  
Jared R. Halstrom ◽  
Hannah M. Barranco ◽  
Benjamin B. Cage ◽  
...  

Category: Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: Plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonopathy are two of the most common foot and ankle overuse conditions encountered in clinical practice. Several recent studies have shown isolated gastrocnemius recession to be a viable treatment option for these conditions when conservative management has failed. Patient outcomes have primarily been assessed through pain and functionality scores. While pain improvement and motion restoration are of utmost importance, plantar flexion power and endurance are also key to patients’ ability to return to everyday activities. Here, we assess patient outcome scores of individuals that underwent gastrocnemius recession for plantar fascitis and achilles tendonopathy to see if surgery was beneficial. Methods: We reviewed 160 patients who underwent isolated gastrocnemius recession for chronic plantar fasciitis and achilles tendinopathy by a single surgeon from June 2011 to August 2018. Data was collected regarding patient pre-operative and post- operative pain scores at 3 months, 1 year, and final follow-up, and post-operative PROMIS physical function (PF), pain interference (PI), and depression (D) t-scores at final follow-up. We also collected data regarding time to full weight bearing, time to 50% and 100% pain relief, time to return to work, time to return to ADL, and time for patient to be out of boot. The patient population was then stratified by preoperative diagnosis and if patients received formal physical therapy. The cohorts consisted of patients that had plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinosis, or a combination of both. The other cohorts were patients that received formal physical therapy and those that did not receive physical therapy. Results: The average preopeartive VAS score fot plantar fasciitis Achilles tendinosis and a combination of both was 4.27 4.10 and 4.93 respectively. For patients that had 3 month follow up (96) all three cohorts saw a decrease in VAS scores at 3 months (1.98, 1.50, and 1.80 respectively). Patients who received physical therapy saw a larger decrease in VAS scores (2.05 vs 1.03 respectively). Patients in all three groups were able to be fully weight baring within 30 days. 20.27 days in the plantar fasciitis, 19.25 for Achilles tendinopathy, and 28.3 days in the combination cohort. Patients with Achillis tendinosis had were able to get out of their boot the fastest (29.75 days). PROMIS scores were similar across all cohorts. Conclusion: This study is the first to complete a through evaluation of patient outcomes after gastrocnemius recession. Additionally, the study is one of the largest cohorts. This study helps to confirm that the surgery is beneficial for both plantar fasciitis and achilles tendinosis. In all cohorts patients pain improved with surgical intervention despite preoperative diagnosis and physical therapy status. Additionally, PROMIS scores across all of the patients were similar and did not indicate any signifcant decreases in physical function or increases in pain. [Table: see text]


2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kawin KW Lee ◽  
Samuel Ka Kin Ling ◽  
Patrick SH Yung

Abstract Introduction: Achilles tendinopathy is one of the most common overuse injuries in running,and forefoot pronation, seen in flatfeet subjects, has been proposed to cause additional loading across the Achilles tendon. Foot orthoses are one of the common and effective conservative treatment prescribed for Achilles tendinopathy, it works by correcting the biomechanical malalignment and reducing tendon load Previous studies have shown reduction of Achilles Tendon load (ATL) during running by using customized arch support orthosis (CASO) or an orthotic heel lift (HL). However, there are still little biomechanical evidence and comparative studies to guide orthotic prescriptions for Achilles tendinopathy management. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the two currently employed orthotic treatment options for Achilles tendinopathy: CASO and HL for the reduction of ATL and Achilles tendon loading rate (ATLR) in recreational runners with flatfeet. Methods: 12 subjects were recruited and run along the runway in the laboratory for three conditions: (1) without orthoses, (2) with CASO (3) with HL. Kinematic and kinetic data were recorded by 3D motion capturing system and force platform. Ankle joint moments and ATL were computed and compared within the three conditions. Results: Subjects who ran with CASO (p=0.001, d=0.43) or HL (p=0.001, d=0.48) associated with a significant reduction in ATL when compared to without orthotics while there was no significant difference between the two types of orthoses, the mean peak ATL of CASO was slightly lower than HL. Regarding the ATLR, both orthoses, CASO (p=0.003, d= 0.93) and HL (p=0.004, d= 0.78), exhibited significant lower value than the control but similarly, no significant difference was noted between them in which the use of CASO yielded a slightly lower loading rate than that of HL. Conclusions: Both CASO and HL were able to cause a significant reduction in peak ATL and ATLR comparing to without orthotics condition. There were subtle differences in the biomechanical effects between the two types of orthoses. The findings help to quantify the effect of CASO and HL on load reduction of Achilles tendon and suggests that foot orthoses may serve to prevent the incidence of Achilles tendon pathologies. Trial: NCT04003870_clinicaltrials.gov, retrospectively_registered


2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kawin KW Lee ◽  
Samuel Ka Kin Ling ◽  
Patrick SH Yung

Abstract Background: Achilles tendinopathy is one of the most common overuse injuries in running, and forefoot pronation, seen in flatfeet participants, has been proposed to cause additional loading across the Achilles tendon. Foot orthoses are one of the common and effective conservative treatment prescribed for Achilles tendinopathy, it works by correcting the biomechanical malalignment and reducing tendon load. Previous studies have shown reduction of Achilles Tendon load (ATL) during running by using customized arch support orthosis (CASO) or an orthotic heel lift (HL). However, there are still little biomechanical evidence and comparative studies to guide orthotic prescriptions for Achilles tendinopathy management. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the two currently employed orthotic treatment options for Achilles tendinopathy: CASO and HL for the reduction of ATL and Achilles tendon loading rate (ATLR) in recreational runners with flatfeet. Methods: 12 participants were recruited and run along the runway in the laboratory for three conditions: (1) without orthoses, (2) with CASO (3) with HL. Kinematic and kinetic data were recorded by 3D motion capturing system and force platform. Ankle joint moments and ATL were computed and compared within the three conditions. Results: Participants who ran with CASO (p=0.001, d=0.43) or HL (p=0.001, d=0.48) associated with a significant reduction in ATL when compared to without orthotics. There was no difference between the two types of orthoses, the mean peak ATL of CASO was slightly lower than HL. Regarding the ATLR, both orthoses, CASO (p=0.003, d= 0.93) and HL (p=0.004, d= 0.78), exhibited significant lower value than the control but similarly, no significant difference was noted between them in which the use of CASO yielded a slightly lower loading rate than that of HL. Conclusions: Both CASO and HL were able to cause a significant reduction in peak ATL and ATLR comparing to without orthotics condition. There were subtle but no statistically significant differences in the biomechanical effects between the two types of orthoses. The findings help to quantify the effect of CASO and HL on load reduction of Achilles tendon and suggests that foot orthoses may serve to prevent the incidence of Achilles tendon pathologies.


2018 ◽  
Vol 43 (8) ◽  
pp. 832-835 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vinay Kulkarni ◽  
Anthony Murray ◽  
Rajat Mittal ◽  
David Spence ◽  
Gabrielle O’Kane ◽  
...  

Nail varnish is commonly removed from fingernails prior to surgical procedures. We report the results of a randomized controlled trial comparing the microbial counts in hands with and without nail varnish applied, following surgical skin preparation. Forty-three patients were randomized; three patients were lost to follow-up. Each patient had one hand painted with nail varnish and had both hands tested 1 week later. There was no significant difference in terms of positive microbial growth between the nail plates or hyponichia with or without nail varnish applied. Our results demonstrate that the presence of nail varnish does not have an effect on the microbial counts of hands following surgical skin preparation. Level of evidence: I


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