Operative Treatment of the Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy Through a Transtendinous Approach

Different operative techniques have been proposed for the treatment of insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT), with often disappointing results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of the transtendinous approach in IAT.

Forty patients operated with an IAT between 2010 and 2011 were included in this retrospective study. The mean follow-up was 15.6 (±3.7, 12-27) months. Indication for surgery was IAT with failed conservative therapy. Using a transtendinous approach, the Achilles tendon (AT) was partially detached and all pathologic tissues were debrided. The AT was reinserted using different anchor techniques. Clinical data were recorded using examination and clinical scores (American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society [AOFAS], Foot and Ankle Outcome Score [FAOS], Numerical Rating Scale [NRS], and Short Form-36 [SF-36]).

The mean AOFAS hindfoot score improved from 59.4 preoperatively to 86.5 postoperatively (P < .05). All FAOS subscales, NRS pain scores, and pain and function subscales of SF-36 improved significantly. The median time of return to work and sports was 14.5 (±17.6; 2-82) and 22.7 (±13.4; 7-58) weeks. Three patients had superficial wound healing difficulties but required no revision. One patient had to be revised due to a hematoma. Patients treated with 2 suture anchors or double-row fixation technique improved significantly (P < .05) compared to those with single anchor fixation, regarding AOFAS score (79.6 and 90.2) and FAOS subscale scores. Eighty-three percent of the patients showed good to excellent results.

The transtendinous approach allowed access to all associated pathologies in IAT. It had relatively few complications and lead to good clinical results.

Level IV, retrospective case series.