[Tendoscopy of the Achilles tendon. Indications, technique and results].

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic surgical techniques are nowadays standard procedures in medicine. The advantages of these minimally invasive techniques compared to open techniques are a smaller access route with reduced tissue damage, reduced scarring and often faster postoperative mobilization. Tendoscopy can be used to treat pathologies of tendons as well as of the surrounding tissues.

OBJECTIVES: This article presents the advantages of endoscopic treatment of the Achilles tendon compared to open procedures as well as the chances and limitations of tendoscopy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Surgical instructions for endoscopy of the Achilles tendon are presented and a review of the literature is given.

RESULTS: The literature review showed excellent results for pathologies of the paratenon and Achilles tendinitis. Compared to open surgery there was a significantly lower rate of wound healing problems. All articles reported a high reduction of pain level with an early return to sports activities. Limitations of the procedure are extensive intratendinous pathologies and alterations of tendon insertion sites.

CONCLUSION: Tendoscopy of the Achilles tendon is a safe but sometimes challenging minimally invasive technique for the treatment of paratendinopathy.