Endoscopic resection of enthesopathy via a direct midline transtendinous approach with associated reattachment of the Achilles tendon (endo-REDMTART): a cadaveric feasibility study.

Abstract

The aim of our study was to determine the feasibility of an all-posterior endoscopic resection of enthesopathy via direct midline transtendinous approach with detachment and reattachment of the Achilles tendon (endo-REDMTART). Endo-REDMTART was performed in 10 ankles by two foot and ankle surgeons. Posterolateral and posteromedial portals were utilized. Three accessory, more distal portals were utilized (one posterolateral, one posteromedial, and one midline transtendinous). We measured the quality of the resection of the calcaneal spur and the length of tendon that was able to be reattached to the calcaneus. The procedure was successful in all 10 cases. The mean minimum thickness of resected calcaneal spur was 7mm (5-9mm) thick, and the mean anteroposterior distance was 23mm (20-25mm). In all 10 cases, the maximum distance between the distal Achilles tendon and calcaneus was 1mm (0-1mm), with good tendon-bone contact. The data here suggest that endo-REDMTART is feasible. This procedure provides all of the advantages of endoscopic technique without compromising the efficacy of Haglund deformity resection. No Clinical Trials Registration or IRB is required. Anatomy study; cadaveric dissection.