Endoscopic reconstruction for chronic Achilles tendon ruptures using a hamstring tendon autograft

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Chronic Achilles tendon ruptures present a significant clinical challenge.
• Surgical reconstruction is often necessary for optimal functional recovery.
• Endoscopic techniques offer potential advantages in minimally invasive repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of endoscopic Achilles tendon reconstruction.
• To assess outcomes using hamstring tendon autografts in chronic ruptures.
• To determine mid-term functional and radiologic results.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patients undergoing endoscopic Achilles reconstruction with hamstring autografts.
• Assessment of radiologic outcomes via pre- and postoperative MRI.
• Evaluation of functional outcomes using AOFAS, PFS, VISA-A, VAS pain, and Arner-Lindholm scales.

Main Results:

• No Achilles tendon re-ruptures or major complications observed.
• Restored Achilles tendon continuity confirmed by MRI.
• Significant improvements in AOFAS, PFS, and VISA-A scores, with reduced VAS pain post-surgery.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic reconstruction with hamstring autografts is a safe and effective treatment for chronic Achilles tendon ruptures.
• The procedure demonstrates favorable mid-term functional outcomes.
• Further research with larger cohorts and longer follow-up is warranted.