Results of Peroneal Tendoscopy With a Technical Modification

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of tendoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of peroneal tendon (PT) pathologies, and to evaluate the results of our technical modification. Methods: Twenty ankles of 18 patients with retrofibular pain, operated on between 2006 and 2012, were included in this study. Peroneal tendoscopy was performed diagnostically for the patients who were diagnosed as having “peroneal tendinopathy” with physical examination, x-ray, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). After being diagnosed by peroneal tendoscopy, patients were definitively treated with either tendoscopy or open surgery. Results: Thirteen of 20 ankles had accompanying ankle pathology with PT pathology, and the other 7 ankles had no concomitant pathology. We detected peroneal tenosynovitis (PTS) in 13 patients, PT tear in 7 patients, and vincula thickening in 1 patient. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 76 preoperatively, and after 2 years’ follow-up the AOFAS score was 96. Conclusion: Tendoscopy is a useful method for the diagnosis and treatment of PT pathologies. The patients with clinical suspicion of PT pathology were treated or diagnosed by peroneal tendoscopy with our technical modification. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.