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.
Keywords: Achilles tendon; endoscopic; tendinopathy; tenotomy.