scholarly journals Functional and MRI follow-up after reconstruction of chronic ruptures of the Achilles tendon Myerson type III using the triple-loop plantaris tendon wrapped with central turndown flap: a case series

Author(s):  
Ahmed F. Sadek ◽  
Ezzat H. Fouly ◽  
Mohammed A. Laklok ◽  
Mohammed F. Amin
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (12) ◽  
pp. 2695
Author(s):  
Lorenzo Masci ◽  
Bradley Stephen Neal ◽  
William Wynter Bee ◽  
Christoph Spang ◽  
Håkan Alfredson

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.


2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 247301142110035
Author(s):  
Keisuke Tsukada ◽  
Youichi Yasui ◽  
Maya Kubo ◽  
Shinya Miki ◽  
Kentaro Matsui ◽  
...  

Background: The purpose of this retrospective study was to clarify the operative outcomes of the side-locking loop suture (SLLS) technique accompanied by autologous semitendinosus tendon grafting for chronic Achilles tendon rupture. Methods: A chart review was conducted of consecutive patients treated with the SLLS technique at our department from 2012 to 2017. Postoperatively, a below-knee splint was applied for 2 weeks in 20 degrees of plantar flexion and then active range of motion exercise was started. Partial weightbearing exercise was allowed at 4 weeks according to patient tolerance, and full weightbearing without crutches was allowed at 8 weeks. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale score and the Achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS) were used to evaluate clinical outcomes preoperatively and at the final follow-up. Results: Ten patients (6 men, 4 women) were included in the analysis. Mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scale score increased significantly from 64.2 ± 5.6 points preoperatively to 95.0 ± 5.3 points at the final follow-up ( P < .001). The mean ATRS also increased significantly from 29.8 ± 4.4 points to 86.2 ± 7.7 points, respectively ( P < .001). Mean time between surgery and ability to perform 20 continuous double-leg heel raises of the operated foot was 13.5 ± 3.4 (range 10-18) weeks. One patient complained of postoperative hypoesthesia in the foot, which had spontaneously resolved by 3 months after surgery. Conclusion: The SLLS technique accompanied by autologous semitendinosus tendon grafting provided successful operative outcomes for patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture regardless of the size of the defect, and thus long-term orthotic use was not needed after surgery. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.


2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. e000979
Author(s):  
Håkan Alfredson ◽  
Lorenzo Masci ◽  
Christoph Spang

ObjectivesChronic painful insertional Achilles tendinopathy is known to be difficult to manage. The diagnosis is not always easy because multiple different tissues can be involved. The plantaris tendon has recently been described to frequently be involved in chronic painful mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy. This study aimed to evaluate possible plantaris tendon involvement in patients with chronic painful insertional Achilles tendinopathy.MethodsNinety-nine consecutive patients (74 males, 25 females) with a mean age of 40 years (range 24–64) who were surgically treated for insertional Achilles tendinopathy, were included. Clinical examination, ultrasound (US)+Doppler examination, and surgical findings were used to evaluate plantaris tendon involvement.ResultsIn 48/99 patients, there were clinical symptoms of plantaris tendon involvement with pain and tenderness located medially at the Achilles tendon insertion. In all these cases, surgical findings showed a thick and wide plantaris tendon together with a richly vascularised fatty infiltration between the plantaris and Achilles tendon. US examination suspected plantaris involvement in 32/48 patients.ConclusionPlantaris tendon involvement can potentially be part of the pathology in chronic painful insertional Achilles tendinopathy and should be considered for diagnosis and treatment when there is distinct and focal medial pain and tenderness.Level of evidenceIV case series.


2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 2473011417S0001
Author(s):  
Daniel Baumfeld ◽  
Fernando Raduan ◽  
Caio Nery ◽  
Benjamim Macedo ◽  
Thiago Silva ◽  
...  

Category: Ankle, Arthroscopy, Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: Background Achilles tendon chronic rupture lead to proximal retraction of the tendon and have a greater tendency to show poorer functional outcomes than acute ruptures. Numerous surgical procedures have been described to treat this pathology. The transfer of the flexor hallucis longus is a well-established treatment option, usually performed as an open procedure. The aim of this paper is to report a case series of six patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture treated with endoscopic transfer of FHL. Methods: Six patients with Achilles tendon chronic injuries or re-ruptures were treated with endoscopic FHL transfer. There were four man and two women, average of 50 years, with four left and two right tendons involved, and no bilateral cases. All lesions were at zone 2 (between 2-6 cm proximal to insertion). We describe the surgical technique and report our results at an average of a nine-month follow-up. Results: The average follow-up of the series was 9 months (range, 5–12 months). Three patients had an associate procedure at the Achilles tendon to repair the pre-existent gap, using a minimally invasive technique. On average, we expend 56 minutes to perform the surgery, ranging from 45 to 70 minutes. All patients had a major increase in ATRS score values postoperatively, with an average of 17.8 preoperatively and 83,3 postoperatively No major complications or wound healing problems were noted. Tiptoe stance was possible for all patients without limitation. None of the patients noticed functional weakness of the hallux during daily life activity. Conclusion: Endoscopic FLH transfer is a reliable option for patients with higher skin risk and soft tissue complications. Other studies are needed to compare this technique with the open procedure, gold standard by now, to ensure its safety and efficacy.


2018 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 73-78
Author(s):  
Michel Chraim ◽  
Hamza M. Alrabai ◽  
Sabine Krenn ◽  
Peter Bock ◽  
Hans-Jörg Trnka

Purpose: This study was aimed to review the short-term results of endoscopic percutaneous longitudinal tenotomy for noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy using the Centerline Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release instrument (Arthrex). This method simplifies the operation technique, allows a good endoscopic visualisation of the Achilles tendon with very promising results. Methods: We performed multiple percutaneous longitudinal tenotomies under local anesthesia in 24 patients (25 tendons) with Achilles tendinopathy or peritendinitis that had failed conservative treatment between January 2013 and September 2016. All ambulatory procedures consisted of paratenon release and longitudinal tenotomies. The results were reviewed in 22 patients (23 tendons) at an average follow-up period of 22.5 months (range 10-36 months). Patients’ satisfaction and functional outcomes were evaluated using the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment–Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire, the pain visual analog scale (VAS), and the functional foot index. Results: Initial results are very promising with excellent results in 12 patients, good results in 9 patients, and fair result in 1 patient. One patient developed a postoperative thrombosis of the operated limb. Another patient developed a hypertrophic painful scar of the incision wound. The VAS for pain decreased drastically after the index procedure and averaged to 0.2 (SD 0.447). The VISA-A questionnaire score had improved from 42 ± 7.2 points preoperatively to 96.8 ± 14.3 points postoperatively (P = .004). The functional foot index decreased from 84 (SD 30.517) to 33.4 (SD 6.452) on the follow-up examination. Conclusions: The endoscopic-assisted longitudinal tenotomies procedure of the Achilles tendon is easily feasible and can be performed on an outpatient basis, produces minimal complications and shows excellent results. The described technique is recommended for all surgeons especially for those familiar with endoscopy of the Achilles tendon. Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case Series


2020 ◽  
Vol 48 (02) ◽  
pp. 79-86
Author(s):  
Juan María Pardo García ◽  
Verónica Jiménez Díaz ◽  
Amaya Barberia Biurrun ◽  
Lorena García Lamas ◽  
Miguel Porras Moreno ◽  
...  

Abstract Introduction Nonunion of the distal radius is an extremely rare and serious complication with unpredictable outcomes. The aim of the present study is to analyze the radiological and functional results after a protocolized surgical treatment. Material and Methods A retrospective review of case series of patients with diagnosis of nonunion of the distal radius surgically treated from 2010 to 2016. The diagnosis of nonunion was made at 6 months without signs of consolidation. According to computed tomography (CT) scan images, we propose a classification of this complication as type I: no deformity or mild deformity, with subchondral metaphyseal bone stock beneath lunate facet greater than 10 mm, with no degenerative changes at the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ); type II: moderate deformity or degenerative changes in the DRUJ, distinguishing between IIA and IIB based on the subchondral metaphyseal bone stock; and type III: degenerative changes at the midcarpal joint. In all cases, a reconstructive technique consisting of volar locking plate osteosynthesis with autologous tailored iliac crest graft was performed, hence none of the cases were classified as type III. Results In total, six cases were included. Mean follow-up: 58 months (range: 30–108 months). Consolidation was achieved in a mean period of 5 months (range: 3–9 months). Average active range of motion: flexion: 54° (range: 10°–80°); extension: 40° (range: 10°–85°); supination: 82.5° (range: 75°–85°); pronation 80° (range: 55–85°); radial deviation: 15° (range: 5°–20°); and ulnar deviation 15° (range: 5–20°). Mean strength: 24.15 Kg (6.9–35 Kg). The average score on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at rest was of 0.6 (0–2), and with movement, it was of 1.8 (0–4). The mean postoperative score on the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire was of 18.48 (range: 0–50.8). Average radial height: 9.65 mm (range: 7–12 mm); average radial angulation: 17° (10°–20°); volar tilt: 8.36° (range: 0.2°–21°); average ulnar variance: 1.52 mm (range: 0–3.5 mm). Complications: persistent nonunion, superficial wound infection, acquired residual ulnar club hand deformity, radiocarpal arthritis, and midcarpal arthritis. Nevertheless, no salvage techniques were needed or requested during the follow-up, with all patients in an active work situation or living an active life in complete normality. Conclusions The protocolized surgical treatment of pseudoarthrosis of the the distal radius, based on our proposed classification, offers good functional outcomes in the long-term follow-up.


2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (6) ◽  
pp. 232596711985432 ◽  
Author(s):  
Merete B. Speedtsberg ◽  
Rasmus Kastoft ◽  
Kristoffer W. Barfod ◽  
Jeanette Ø. Penny ◽  
Jesper Bencke

Background: An Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is known to cause persistent biomechanical deficits such as decreased muscle strength in end-range plantar flexion and reduced tendon stiffness. Purpose/Hypothesis: This study aimed to examine whether sustained asymmetries were present in dynamic stiffness and kinematic and kinetic variables in gait and single-leg balance at 4.5-year follow-up in conservatively treated patients recovering from an ATR. We hypothesized that patients who had recovered from ATRs exhibit a midterm increase in peak ankle dorsiflexion, a decrease in concentric work, and decreased dynamic stiffness during the stance phase of gait, along with increased single-leg standing sway in the injured leg compared with the uninjured leg. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional medium-term follow-up of conservatively treated patients recovering from ATRs. A total of 34 patients who underwent nonoperative treatment were included for testing 4.5 years after a rupture. The Achilles tendon length was measured using ultrasound. Standard instrumented 3-dimensional (3D) gait analysis and single-leg standing balance were performed using 3D motion capture. Kinematic and kinetic ankle parameters were calculated during gait, and quasi-stiffness was calculated as the moment change per the change in the degree of dorsiflexion during the second (ankle) rocker of the gait cycle. Center of pressure displacement (sway length), along with rambling and trembling, was calculated for the single-leg balance task. Results: Peak dorsiflexion in stance was 13.4% larger in the injured leg than the uninjured leg (16.9° ± 3.1° vs 14.9° ± 0.4°, respectively; P ≤ .001). Peak dorsiflexion was not associated with the normalized Achilles tendon length (B = 0.052; P = .775). Total positive work in the plantar flexors was 23.9% greater in the uninjured leg than the injured leg (4.71 ± 1.60 vs 3.80 ± 0.79 J/kg, respectively; P = .001). Quasi-stiffness was greater in the uninjured leg than the injured leg during the initial (0.053 ± 0.022 vs 0.046 ± 0.020 N·m/kg/deg, respectively; P = .009) and late (0.162 ± 0.110 vs 0.139 ± 0.041 N·m/kg/deg, respectively; P = .005) phases of eccentric loading. No difference was found in sway length during single-leg stance between the injured and uninjured legs (1.45 ± 0.4 vs 1.44 ± 0.4 m, respectively; P = .955). Conclusion: Patients treated conservatively have a small increase in peak dorsiflexion, decreased total concentric plantar flexor power, and decreased quasi-stiffness in initial and end-range dorsiflexion in the injured leg. These deviations could not be directly associated with the measured tendon elongation. Registration: NCT02760784 ( ClinicalTrials.gov ).


2018 ◽  
Vol 4 (1) ◽  
pp. e000462 ◽  
Author(s):  
Håkan Alfredson ◽  
Lorenzo Masci ◽  
Christoph Spang

ObjectivesSurgical removal of the plantaris tendon can cure plantaris-associated Achilles tendinopathy, a condition in which Achilles and plantaris tendinopathy coexist. However, rare cases with plantaris tendinopathy alone are often misdiagnosed due to a normal Achilles tendon.Design and settingProspective case series study at one centre.ParticipantsTen consecutive patients (9 men and one woman, mean age 35 years, range 19–67) with plantaris tendon-related pain alone in altogether 13 tendons were included. All had had a long duration (median 10 months, range 3 months to 10 years) of pain symptoms on the medial side of the Achilles tendon mid-portion. Preoperative ultrasound showed thickened plantaris tendon but a normal Achilles tendon.InterventionsOperative treatment consisting of ultrasound-guided excision of the plantaris tendon.Primary and secondary outcome measuresScores from Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles questionnaire (VISA-A)were taken preoperatively and postoperatively (median duration 10 months). Patient satisfaction and time until full return to sports activity level was asked by a questionnaire.ResultsThe VISA-A scores increased from 61 (range 45–81) preoperatively to 97 (range 94–100) postoperatively (p<0.01). Follow-up results at 10 months (range 7–72 months) on 9/10 patients showed full satisfaction and return to their preinjury sports or recreational activityConclusionThe plantaris tendon should be kept in mind when evaluating painful conditions in the Achilles tendon region, especially when no Achilles tendinopathy is present. Excision of the plantaris tendon via a minor surgical procedure in local anaesthesia results in a good outcome.


2019 ◽  
Vol 41 (2) ◽  
pp. 140-146 ◽  
Author(s):  
Önder Murat Hürmeydan ◽  
Mehmet Demirel ◽  
Natig Valiyev ◽  
Turker Sahinkaya ◽  
Önder İsmet Kılıçoğlu

Background: Little data exist regarding the adverse effects of Achilles tendon (AT) elongation after rupture repair on plantarflexion strength. This study aimed to investigate the effect of AT elongation measured using AT resting angle (ATRA) on the plantarflexion strength in patients with surgically treated acute AT rupture. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on 40 patients (15 female and 25 female) who underwent open operative repair due to an acute AT rupture. At the final follow-up, AT elongation was assessed using ATRA. Plantarflexion strength (peak torques and angle-specific torques) was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. All variables were obtained from the operated and unoperated contralateral ankles of the patients. Results: The mean ATRA was greater in the operated ankles (mean, 57 degrees; range, 39-71 degrees) compared with the unoperated ones (mean, 52 degrees; range, 36-66 degrees; P = .009). Except the plantarflexion torque at 20 degrees of plantarflexion ( P = .246), all the other angle-specific torques were lower in the operated ankles ( P < .05). Peak flexion torque at 30 degrees/s was lower in the operated ankle ( P = .002). A negative correlation was found between operated/unoperated (O/N) ATRA and O/N plantarflexion torque ratios at 0 degrees ( r = −0.404; P = .01), 10 degrees ( r = −0.399; P= .011), and 20 degrees ( r = −0.387; P = .014). Conclusion: Postoperative AT elongation measured using ATRA may have a deleterious effect on the plantarflexion strength in patients with surgically treated acute AT rupture. Level of Evidence: Level IV, case series.


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