Endoscopic reconstruction for chronic Achilles tendon ruptures using a hamstring tendon autograft.

BACKGROUND: To determine the safety and efficacy of endoscopic reconstruction of chronic Achilles tendon ruptures using a hamstring tendon autograft at mid-term follow-up. METHODS: We reviewed the medical records of patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture treated surgically by endoscopic reconstruction using a hamstring tendon autograft at our institution between March 2010 and October 2015. Radiologic outcomes were assessed using pre- and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Functional outcomes were evaluated with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale, the Plantar Flexion Strength (PFS), the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) scale, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score, and the Arner-Lindholm standard. All patients achieved primary healing with no lengthening of the Achilles tendon, skin necrosis, infection, deep vein thrombosis or other complications. RESULTS: Mean follow-up period was 15 ± 3 months (range, 12-18 months). There was no Achilles tendon re-rupture. MRI examination revealed that Achilles tendon continuity was restored. Patients' mean AOFAS, PFS, and VISA-A scores were significantly higher and mean VAS pain score was significantly lower after surgery compared to before (P < 0.05). According to Arner-Lindholm standards, there were twenty (76.9%) excellent, six (23.1%) good, and zero bad outcomes. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic reconstruction utilizing a hamstring tendon autograft is a safe and efficacious option for repair of chronic Achilles tendon ruptures. Studies with larger sample sizes and a longer follow-up are required to confirm the advantage of this technique compared to open surgery.