Enhanced Tenodesis for Retrocalcaneal Surgery

Abstract

Retrocalcaneal surgery is complex and difficult. Over the years, many different approaches to retrocalcaneal surgery have been described. Partial or total release of the tendo Achillis is often necessary, with reattachment being of paramount importance to allow for optimal function following surgery. Although numerous anchoring devices have been introduced for tendo Achillis reattachment, the authors have found the DePuy TiMAX Spider Plate (DePuy ACE, Warsaw, Indiana) to be superior. This article describes the Spider Plate and associated surgical technique, which have greatly enhanced the outcome of retrocalcaneal surgery.

Safety of Achilles Detachment and Reattachment Using a Standard Midline Approach to Insertional Enthesophytes

“…Operative care has been described as a lateral, medial, or midline incision through skin and a U-shaped full-thickness Achilles detachment from its insertion centrally, resection of the exostosis and inflamed tendon, and reinsertion of the tendon with 1 or 2 suture anchors. Many different anchor types have been described for the use of tendon to bone healing (5)(6)(7)(8)(9). Reattachment at physiologic tension is quite important to prevent contracture and laxity.…”

Some New Ideas in the Treatment of Retrocalcaneal Exostosis

“…Achilles tendon bone anchor reattachment is not a novel concept. [3][4][5] A new suture technique, the Achilles Tendon SutureBridge (Arthrex, Inc, Naples, Florida), offers a strong anchor reattachment of the Achilles tendon to the posterior calcaneus. The studies performed by Arthrex in testing have shown a greatly increased contact pressure and fixation strength compared with a standard single row anchor repair.…”