The Peroneal Groove Deepening Procedure: A Biomechanical Study of Pressure Reduction

Abstract

Background: The goal of this study was to identify pressure changes throughout the peroneal groove after a groove deepening procedure. We hypothesized that pressures would decrease. Methods: Twelve fresh-frozen foot and ankle specimens were used. A thin pressure strip containing four sensor pads was secured within the peroneal groove with pads 1 through 4 positioned at the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) and at the distal, middle, and proximal groove, respectively. The midstance phase of gait was simulated with loads applied to the plantar foot and posterior tibial tendon and to the peroneus longus and brevis tendons. Pressures were recorded with the ankle in neutral, plantarflexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, and eversion. Groove deepening was done by osteotomizing the posterior fibular wall. Pressure readings were then recorded. Average pressures for each of the four sensor pads after the procedure were compared to those obtained before the procedure. Results: The mean pressure overlying the CFL increased at all five ankle positions; however, these changes were not significant. Significant decreases in pressure were noted within the distal and middle groove at all ankle positions after the peroneal groove deepening procedure. Pressure within the proximal groove increased at all but one position, with a significant difference noted in neutral and plantarflexion. Conclusion: Pressures within the middle and distal peroneal groove significantly decreased after a groove deepening procedure. Combining this technique with peroneal tendon debridement may be advantageous for treatment of partial peroneal tendon tears or recalcitrant peroneal tendinitis.