Endoscopic calcaneal SpeedBridge technique: Decreased postoperative complication rate in insertional achilles tendinopathy

Background

An endoscopic calcaneal SpeedBridge technique was described recently. The primary objective of this study was to report the postoperative complications seen with calcaneal SpeedBridge repair. The secondary objective was to report short- and medium-term functional outcomes.

Hypothesis

Postoperative complications are less common with endoscopic vs. open SpeedBridge suturing.

Material and methods

The endoscopic SpeedBridge technique was used in 9 patients who had insertional Achilles tendinopathy refractory to conservative management. The patients were evaluated at least 24 months after the procedure. Infectious and wound-healing complications were recorded. Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for pain and patient satisfaction, shoeing difficulties, the European Foot and Ankle Society (EFAS) score, and the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) score were assessed.

Results

During the mean follow-up of 25.3 months, no complications were recorded. The EFAS and VISA-A scores were 37/40 and 91/100, respectively. The mean VAS scores for pain and satisfaction were 1.7/10 and 9.3/10, respectively. No patients reported shoeing difficulties.

Conclusion

Endoscopic calcaneal SpeedBridge suturing is associated with a lower complication rate compared to the open variant. Clinical outcomes are highly satisfactory in the short and middle terms.

Level of evidence

IV; retrospective observational cohort study.