Peroneus Brevis Allograft Reconstruction: Clinical Outcomes and Complications

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Musculoskeletal Research
• Tendon Repair

Background:

• Limited clinical data exists for allograft reconstruction of peroneus brevis tears.
• The complication profile of this procedure is not well-defined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes and complication profile of peroneus brevis tear reconstruction using semitendinosus allograft.
• To assess patient satisfaction, brace use, and return-to-work status after allograft reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 68 patients (69 feet) undergoing peroneus brevis reconstruction with semitendinosus allograft.
• Data collected on demographics, surgical details, complications, and reoperations.
• Postoperative phone surveys assessed patient satisfaction, brace use, and employment status.

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores postoperatively (P=.0018).
• Overall complication rate was 58%, with sural neuralgia (26%) and allograft failure (10%) being most common.
• High return-to-work rate (90% of employed patients) and patient satisfaction (67% satisfied or very satisfied).

Conclusions:

• Allograft reconstruction for peroneus brevis tears can improve pain and facilitate return to work.
• A high complication rate (58%) and graft failure rate (10%) necessitate careful patient selection.
• This procedure may be a viable option when other surgical choices are limited, but technical challenges must be considered.