All-inside Arthroscopic Release for Iliotibial Band Syndrome. Description of Surgical Technique and Short-term Results

Abstract

Introduction: Description of an arthroscopic procedure (all-inside arthroscopic release, AIAR) that combines all the possible interventions on the iliotibial band (ITB), and evaluates its outcomes in a group of distance runners diagnosed with ITBS. Methods A prospective observational study was made of distance runners diagnosed with ITBS and operated upon using the AIAR technique between 1 January 2018 and 31 June 2020. The surgical technique is described in detail, and the demographic data and functional outcomes measured by the ARS and IKDC sports performance scales are presented. Results A total of 14 patients were included, with a mean follow-up of 16 months (range 12–42 months). In all cases, statistically significant improvement was evidenced by the ARS and IKDC scales following AIAR (p = 0.00048), with excellent outcomes in 71% of the cases according to the ARS scale and in 86% according to the IKDC scale (mean difference of 11.9/16 and 33.8/100 points, respectively). No complications were recorded. Conclusion The AIAT technique is effective in allowing a return to previous sports performance levels in a short period of time among patients with ITBS refractory to conservative management, with a high satisfaction rate and the absence of complications.