Flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer for chronic Achilles tendon rupture. A retrospective study

BackgroundThe transfer of Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendon (FHL) is an established method for the treatment of chronic Achilles tendon ruptures. An extensive examination of power, strength, endurance and complications related to this procedure is presented.Methods21 patients treated with open FHL transfer for chronic Achilles tendon rupture were studied retrospectively. Medical records were reviewed. The patients were examined with a test battery for triceps surae strength, functional tests and PROMs.ResultsThe median maximal concentric strength was equal,1300 vs 1336 W, comparing affected with unaffected side. The endurance tests showed a larger difference, 219 J vs. 2398 J, respectively. The median AOFAS score was 87. 11 of 21 patients sustained one or more complications; the most common were infection, disturbed wound healing, and clawing of small toes.ConclusionsPatients achieve almost normal maximal strength after open FHL transfer, but endurance is notably lower. The complication rate was high.     

Flexor hallucis longus transfer versus turndown flaps augmented with flexor hallucis longus transfer in the repair of chronic Achilles tendon rupture

Background

Repairs of chronic Achilles tendon ruptures are technically challenging due to large defects after scar excision. Multiple techniques for repair have been proposed but little consensus on best practice established. This study aims to compare flexor hallucis longus (FHL) transfers versus turndown flaps augmented by FHL transfers.

Flexor hallucis longus transfer for repair of chronic achilles tendinopathy

BACKGROUND: The flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon has been used to augment the repairs for chronic Achilles tendinopathy. Two common methods of FHL harvesting include a single incision (posterior) technique and a double incision (posterior and medial utility) technique. This cadaver study was designed to measure and compare the lengths of FHL tendon obtainable for reconstruction with each technique. METHODS: Fourteen fresh-frozen cadaver lower limbs were utilized for FHL harvest. The tendon was first exposed through the single posterior-medial incision approach adjacent to the Achilles. A second medial utility midfoot incision was then made and the FHL was marked at the level of Henry's knot with a suture, to approximate the level of potential harvest via a two-incision technique. The FHL was then harvested and delivered into the posterior wound. Single incision technique graft length was then measured from the tip of the calcaneal tuber to the level of transection. The remaining in situ tendon was then also measured between its level of transection and the more distal suture placed at Henry's knot. These two lengths were then combined to determine the total potential tendon graft length obtainable using a double incision technique. RESULTS: The average length of the FHL tendon harvested through the single posterior incision technique measured 5.16 cm (range, 3.4-6.9 cm, SD = 1.29). The average total tendon graft length available using the double incision technique measured 8.09 cm (range, 5.1-11.1 cm, SD = 1.63). The difference between the lengths obtained from these two techniques was significant (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: These results demonstrate approximate FHL graft lengths obtainable by using either a single or double incision harvest technique and show that a significantly longer graft can be obtained using a double incision technique. Further data need to be obtained, however, to support whether the extra surgery and graft length obtained from a double incision technique are of any benefit in improving the ultimate functional outcome of these repairs.     

拇长屈肌腱转移修复陈旧性跟腱断裂

2007年9月～2010年9月,我科采用拇长屈肌腱转移修复陈旧性跟腱断裂10例,效果满意,报道如下。1材料与方法1.1病例资料本组10例,男7例,女3例,年龄20～53岁。左侧4例,右侧6例。跟腱断裂部位:止点部断裂3例,腱     

Flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer: evaluation of postoperative morbidity

Clinical and pedobarograph evaluation was performed on 16 patients following flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon transfers to determine the resulting morbidity due to the loss of FHL function. All patients underwent FHL tendon transfer for either chronic tendon Achilles rupture or chronic Achilles tendinosis. Clinical evaluation of hallux function was performed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal scale, the SF-36 score, and a clinical questionnaire to assess alteration in the clinical function of the hallux during activities of daily living. Pedobarography was carried out using the Musgrave pedobarograph system to detect changes in forefoot loading in comparison to the contralateral normal foot. Fourteen of the 16 patients scored maximally on the hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal scale and none of the patients noticed functional weakness of the hallux during activities of daily living at a mean follow-up of 43.6 months (range, 5-120 months). Pedobarograph readings showed a trend toward reduction in peak pressure loading on the distal phalanx, but this was not significant for the numbers of patients studied. There was no significant increase in loading of the first or second metatarsophalangeal joints to suggest that transfer metatarsalgia may complicate FHL tendon transfer. According to the results of the study morbidity from FHL transfer should be clinically insignificant.     

Modified flexor hallucis longus transfer for Achilles insertional rupture in elderly patients

Elderly patients with symptomatic Achilles tendinopathy who develop insertional ruptures develop are at risk of persistent pain and poor functional outcome. Extensive debridement of the tendinopathy creates a defect that adds to the difficulty of Achilles insertional rupture repair. Complete excision of the tendinopathy segment was proposed to minimize persistent pain. Reconstruction of the defect using modified flexor hallucis longus transfer might better restore Achilles function. Five patients older than 50 years (mean age, 58.8 years) who had symptomatic Achilles tendinopathy and subsequently had insertional ruptures were treated. The outcome was assessed at an average of 28.8 months after the reconstruction. There was good pain relief. All patients were able to do single-leg stance. Cybex isokinetic testing showed plantar flexion peak torque deficits of 10.9% and 3.9% when tested at 60 degrees /second and 120 degrees /second, respectively. The Functional Ambulation Performance score indicated a near normal gait pattern. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score improved from 64.4 to 94.4. There was no major surgical complication and no re-rupture. Excision of Achilles tendinopathy segment followed by modified flexor hallucis longus transfer can achieve good pain relief and functional recovery in elderly patients with symptomatic Achilles tendinopathy who have Achilles insertional ruptures develop.     

Flexor hallucis longus dysfunction: an overview

Whereas acute and chronic injuries of the tibialis posterior, peroneal and Achilles tendon are frequently encountered, disorders of the flexor hallucis longus tendon are often overlooked, which may contribute to chronic pain and disability. Patients with stenosing tenosynovitis of the flexor hallucis longus tendon frequently present with overlapping signs and symptoms of flexor hallucis longus tendinitis, plantar fasciitis and tarsal tunnel syndrome, which the authors collectively refer to as "flexor hallucis longus dysfunction." A keen awareness of the presenting signs and symptoms and use of ancillary MR imaging and FHL tenography will assist the practitioner in recognizing this commonly misdiagnosed condition.     

趾长屈肌腱和长屈肌腱移位修复陈旧性跟腱断裂

目的：探讨趾长屈肌腱、[足母]长屈肌腱移位修复陈旧性跟腱断裂的手术方法和疗效。方法：13例陈旧性跟腱断裂患者,男9例,女4例;年龄32～69岁,平均41岁;左侧8例,右5例;受伤至手术时间3～8个月,平均4.5个月。13例患者均有明确外伤史,均为闭合性损伤跟腱断裂。采用趾长屈肌腱移位修复陈旧性跟腱断裂5例,行[足母]长屈肌腱移位修复陈旧性跟腱断裂8例。结果：13例随访时间11个月～4.5年,平均2年,伤口无感染,跟腱无再断裂,踝关节活动基本正常,足背屈跖屈功能良好,未发生锤状趾畸形。按Arner-Lindholm疗效评定标准评定,优9例（[足母]长屈肌腱移位修复6例,趾长屈肌腱移位修复3例）,良3例（[足母]长屈肌腱移位修复2例,趾长屈肌腱移位修复1例）,差1例（趾长屈肌腱移位修复）。结论：采用趾长屈肌腱、[足母]长屈肌腱移位修复陈旧性跟腱断裂的手术方法,可获得良好的疗效,是较理想的治疗方法。而采用长屈肌腱移位修复陈旧性跟腱断裂更趋近于合理。     

An outcome study of chronic Achilles tendinosis after excision of the Achilles tendon and flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer

BACKGROUND: A number of operative techniques, including decompression with debridement and flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon augmentation, have been described for chronic degenerative Achilles tendinosis. Decompression with debridement has been shown to be effective; however, pain and functional limitation can persist in individuals with more severe tendon involvement. Augmentation with the FHL tendon can add mechanical support; however, difficulty in achieving proper tendon tensioning and the potential to leave behind painful diseased tendon are disadvantages of the technique. The purpose of this study was to present the results of a modified technique in which the Achilles tendon is completely excised and the FHL tendon is transferred. METHODS: Fifty-six surgeries using this modified technique were done between October, 1994, and March, 2002, for patients with chronic degenerative Achilles tendinosis. Forty-four patients with and average age of 58.2 (SD 10.1) years and an average time of followup of 3.4 (SD 1.9) years were available for testing. All subjects were mailed a packet of standardized questionnaire information that included the Self-Reported Health Related Quality of Life measures Short Form (SF-36) and the subjective component of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle and Hindfoot Score. Nineteen patients returned to the clinic for objective assessment. Statistical analysis tested for a difference in the SF-36 scores between our subjects and the general United States population and for a difference in strength and range of motion between the involved and uninvolved lower extremities. RESULTS: Pain decreased in 95.5% (n = 42) patients, and 86.4% (n = 38) patients were satisfied with the result. There was no significant difference (p > .05) between the SF-36 scores obtained by our sample compared to the general United States population. The average AOFAS score for the 19 patients was 91.6 (SD 7.7). Dorsiflexion range of motion was not significantly different (p = 0.17); however, significant deficits were found in plantarflexion range of motion (p = 0.001) and plantarflexion strength (p < 0.025). Strength deficits were 30% on average; however, all but one patient could do a heel raise. CONCLUSION: Complete Achilles tendon excision reduces pain while preserving functional status. Although strength deficits persisted, these deficits did not seem to affect the functional status in this sample of patients.     

拇长屈肌腱转位结合挤压螺钉重建KuwadaⅣ型陈旧性跟腱断裂

目的:探讨拇长屈肌腱转位后应用挤压螺钉重建陈旧性KuwadaⅣ型跟腱断裂的临床效果。方法:回顾性分析2010年9月至2012年6月,拇长屈肌腱转位后采用挤压螺钉固定重建26例陈旧性跟腱断裂患者的临床资料,其中男18例,女8例;年龄20～66岁,平均44.2岁。所有患者为单侧损伤。MRI显示跟腱断端距离为6.0～9.0 cm.观察术后并发症情况,并采用美国足踝外科协会(American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society,AOFAS)踝与后足评分及Leppilahti跟腱修复评分进行评价疗效。结果:26例获得随访,时间18～68个月,平均30.4个月。术后无神经损伤及切口感染,所有患者切口Ⅰ期愈合。术后踝关节外形及功能恢复良好,AOFAS踝与后足评分由术前52.27±12.30提高至术后90.92±6.36(t=-18.26,P<0.05).Leppilahti跟腱修复评分术前34.23±12.86提高至术后90.00±5.10分(t=-22.67,P<0.05).结论:拇长屈肌腱转位后应用挤压螺钉固定来重建陈旧性KuwadaⅣ型跟腱断裂具有操作简单,术后恢复快、肌腱固定牢靠、并发症少的优点。     

Chronic Achilles tendon rupture reconstruction using a modified flexor hallucis longus transfer

The purpose of this study was to report the management and outcome of 11 patients presenting with chronic Achilles tendon (AT) rupture treated by a modified flexor hallucis longus (FHL) transfer. Seven patients presented with a neglected AT rupture, one with a chronic AT rupture associated with Achilles tendinosis and three with an AT re-rupture. AT defect after fibrosis debridement averaged 7.4 cm. In addition to FHL transfer, we performed an augmentation using the two remaining fibrous scar stumps of the ruptured AT. Functional assessment was performed using the AOFAS score and isokinetic evaluation was performed to assess ankle plantarflexion torque deficit. Follow-up averaged 79 months. Functional outcome was excellent with a significant improvement of the AOFAS score at latest follow-up. No re-rupture nor major complication, particularly of wound healing, was observed. All patients presented with a loss of active range of motion of the hallux interphalangeal joint without functional weakness during athletic or daily life activities. Isokinetic testing at 30 degrees/second and 120 degrees/second revealed a significant average decrease of 28 ± 11% and 36 ± 4.1%, respectively, in plantarflexion peak torque. Although strength deficit persisted at latest follow-up, functional improvement was significant without morbidity due to FHL harvesting. For patients with chronic AT rupture with a rupture gap of at least 5 cm, surgical repair using FHL transfer with fibrous AT stump reinforcement achieved excellent outcomes.     

Hypertrophy of the flexor hallucis longus muscle after tendon transfer in patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture

BackgroundFlexor hallucis longus tendon (FHLT) transfer has become a popular method for reconstructing a chronic Achilles tendon rupture (ATR). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes and possible hypertrophy of the FHL muscle after FHLT transfer in patients with chronic ATR.MethodsSeven patients with chronic ATR underwent an FHLT transfer to heel through single incision. The patients were clinically evaluated 27 (16–39) months after the surgery. The patient satisfaction was assessed with Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Scale (ATRS). Isokinetic strength was measured from both legs. The FHL muscle hypertrophy was evaluated from MRI of both legs. All subjects also performed a gait analysis with an instrumented walkway system (GAITRite^®).ResultsThe plantar flexion strength was 16.1% (-45, 7-2, 4%) weaker in the operated leg. ATRS scores averaged 70.3. Marked hypertrophy, +52% (9–104%) of the FHL muscle was seen in the operated leg compared to the non-operated leg. The gait analysis did not show any marked pathology in any of the patients.ConclusionsA mean hypertrophy of 52% of the FHL muscle was found after FHLT transfer for the chronic ATR. This indicates strong adaptation capacity of this muscle after FLHT transfer in situation where the function of the gastro-soleus complex was severely impaired preoperatively. The reconstruction of chronic ATR with FHLT transfer provided a good functional outcome and excellent patient satisfaction.     

Functional outcome of gastrocnemius advancement flap augmented with short flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer in chronic Achilles tear

BackgroundThere are various techniques of Achilles tendon (TA) repair and reconstruction in chronic Achilles tear. However, there is no clear consensus on the relevance of one method over the other. The short flexor hallucis longus tendon (FHL) transfer has recently gained popularity because of its same phasic action, ease of harvesting and tensile strength.MethodologyFifteen chronic Achilles tear (>6 weeks) were treated with tendon repair using gastrocnemius advancement flap augmented with FHL transfer. The patients were followed-up at 1.5, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. The clinical outcome at latest follow-up was evaluated using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) and the Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS).ResultsThe mean age was 43.5 ± 12.4 years and the median time from injury to surgery was 17.13 ± 9.64 weeks. The mean gap between the retracted ends of the ruptured tendon was 5.67 ± 1.63 cm (range 4–10 cm). The mean follow-up was 19.07 ± 3.15 months (range, 13–24 months). The mean AOFAS and ATRS improved from 72.07 ± 8.29 (62–83) to 98.4 ± 2.03 (94–100) and 61.73 ± 8.16 (52–70) to 98 ± 1.85 (94–100) respectively (paired t-test, p-value 0.0001). All patients resumed their pre-injury daily activities, and there was no donor site morbidity. Two patients had sterile serous discharge, and one patient had a staphylococcus infection. These patients responded to debridement with prolonged antibiotic therapy. There were no nerve injuries or re-rupture.ConclusionThe functional outcome of chronic Achilles tear treated with gastrocnemius advancement flap augmented with short FHL transfer is rewarding.     

Flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer for hallux claw toe deformity and vertical instability of the metatarsophalangeal joint

BACKGROUND: Historically, operative treatment of hallux claw toe deformity has been the Jones procedure or one of its modifications. Review of the literature confirms its ability to maintain alignment and achieve patient satisfaction; however, several complications have been reported. Many of these are related to altered biomechanics across the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. A similar approach to this clinical problem involves restoration of the flexion moment across the MTP joint without an interphalangeal (IP) joint arthrodesis. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of 10 patients who had a flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon transfer to the proximal phalanx of the great toe for hallux claw toe deformity, as well as for symptomatic vertical instability. Four patients had a positive drawer test indicating vertical instability without static deformity. Two patients with vertical instability were found to have a dynamic deformity. Mean followup was 24 (SD 15.2) months. RESULTS: All deformities were corrected and alignment was maintained at the time of followup. Pain under the first metatarsal head was reliably improved in symptomatic patients (p < 0.05). Patient satisfaction also was assessed. All six patients treated for hallux claw deformity were satisfied with their outcomes. Two of the four patients treated for vertical instability were satisfied. The other two patients expressed dissatisfaction because of persistent pain that occurred during strenuous exercise. Their symptoms during routine activity were improved, however. CONCLUSION: Based on initial results, the FHL transfer to the proximal phalanx appears to be a viable treatment option for hallux claw deformity in terms of deformity correction, pain relief, and patient satisfaction. Further evaluation is warranted regarding the indication of vertical instability.     

Extensor hallucis longus transfer for hallux varus deformity

The hallux varus deformity results from a dynamic imbalance of the tendons that cross the first metatarsophalangeal joint. This condition most frequently occurs after McBride-type operative treatment for hallux valgus. A new procedure, developed to correct this imbalance, involves transferring the extensor hallucis longus beneath the first intermetatarsal ligament into the base of the proximal phalanx, along with an arthrodesis of the first interphalangeal joint. This procedure in fifteen affected great toes gave over-all satisfactory correction of the hallux varus deformity.     

Clinical outcomes of chronic Achilles tendon rupture treated with flexor hallucis longus grafting and flexor hallucis longus grafting plus additional augmentation: A meta-analysis

BackgroundThe treatment of chronic Achilles tendon rupture is still controversial. Many surgical procedures have been proposed and claim to have good post-operative clinical outcomes. These techniques include direct repair, V–Y flap, turndown flap, peroneus brevis tendon graft, flexor digitorum longus graft, FHL graft, semitendinosus graft, gracilis tendon graft or synthetic material. The two surgical techniques that are widely used include FHL grafting and the combination of FHL grafting plus additional augmentation. This meta-analysis was conducted with the purpose of comparing clinical outcomes of flexor hallucis longus (FHL) grafting and the combination of FHL grafting with additional augmentation techniques in the treatment of chronic Achilles tendon rupture.MethodsSystematic literature searches were conducted on Medline, Embase and Scopus from their inception to April 4, 2019, and proceedings of reference list and scientific meetings were also searched. Relevant clinical studies (e.g., observational, cross-sectional, cohort or randomized controlled trial (RCT)) that reported AOFAS (American Orthopedic Foot Ankle Score) and postoperative complications of either technique were identified.ResultsSix studies (N = 68) were included for the analysis of FHL, and six studies (N = 124) were included for analysis of FHL with augmentation. A pooling of mean and standard deviation of preoperative and postoperative AOFAS were 57.09 (3.63), 92.97 (22.67) in FHL group and 66.92 (3.16), 95.25 (4.71) in FHL with additional augmentation group respectively. The pooled UMD of AOFAS in FHL with additional augmentation were 2.28 (−1.86, 6.42) scores higher when compared to the FHL group. The prevalence of complications in FHL and FHL with additional augmentation were 14 (N = 120) and 10 (N = 63) patients. The chance of having complications of FHL with additional augmentation group was 0.74 (95% CI: 0.35, 1.56) lower than FHL group. However, there is no statistically significant difference.ConclusionsFHL with additional augmentation group has higher foot function scores (AOFAS) and lower complications when compared to the FHL group. However this did not reach to statistically significant. Further research that assesses a larger sample size of RCTs is necessary to further evaluate FHL with additional augmentation and FHL in the treatment of chronic Achilles tendon rupture.