What is Minimally Invasive Insertional Achilles Repair?
Minimally invasive insertional Achilles repair is a surgical procedure designed to treat insertional Achilles tendinopathy and partial tendon tears near the heel using small incisions and specialized instruments. This technique removes damaged tendon tissue, addresses bony irregularities, and reattaches the Achilles tendon while minimizing trauma to surrounding structures. Compared to traditional open surgery, this approach results in less pain, faster recovery, and reduced risk of complications.
When is Minimally Invasive Insertional Achilles Repair Recommended?
This procedure is recommended for patients who:
- Have chronic pain that does not respond to conservative treatments
- Experience limited mobility due to persistent Achilles tendon inflammation
- Have bone spurs (Haglund’s deformity) causing tendon irritation
- Suffer from partial tears or degeneration of the Achilles tendon near its insertion
- Need a quicker recovery with less postoperative pain compared to open surgery
How is Minimally Invasive Insertional Achilles Repair Performed?
Small incisions made near the Achilles insertion point. Through these incisions, the surgeon removes damaged tendon tissue and any inflamed bursae contributing to pain and dysfunction. If bone spurs or calcifications are present, they are carefully smoothed to prevent further irritation. The Achilles tendon is then reattached using specialized sutures or anchors to ensure stability and proper healing. By utilizing minimally invasive tools, the surgeon minimizes disruption to surrounding tissues, which helps reduce postoperative pain and speeds up recovery.
Recovery after Minimally Invasive Insertional Achilles Repair
Recovery typically involves a period of partial weight-bearing, followed by progressive rehabilitation. Patients may require the use of a walking boot initially to protect the repair. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in regaining strength and flexibility, with exercises gradually increasing in intensity. Most individuals can expect to resume normal activities within three to six months, depending on the extent of the repair and individual healing response. Because this technique involves smaller incisions and less soft tissue trauma, patients often experience a faster recovery compared to traditional open procedures.
Risks of Minimally Invasive Insertional Achilles Repair
- Infection
- Nerve irritation
- Incomplete healing or tendon re-tear
- Blood clot formation
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Insertional Achilles Repair
- Smaller incisions and less scarring
- Reduced pain and swelling post-surgery
- Quicker recovery compared to traditional open procedures
- Lower risk of complications due to minimal tissue disruption