Do pre-operative radiologic assessment predict postoperative outcomes in patients with insertional Achilles tendinopathy?: a retrospective database study

摘要

Abstract Introduction Diagnosis and treatment of insertional tendinopathy of the Achilles tendon (IAT) remains a challenge. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of pre-operative radiological pathologies on the patient-reported outcomes following open debridement of all pathologies for IAT.Materials and methods In this IRB-approved retrospective correlation and comparative study, patients with pre-operative imaging were identified from the authors’ retrospective IAT database comprising of 118 patients. All were treated by a standardized surgical treatment strategy utilizing a midline, transachillary approach and debridement of all pathologies. A total of fifteen radiologic parameters were measured on radiographs (RX) and MRI. The patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles questionnaire (VISA-A-G) and the general health questionnaire SF-12 at a minimum follow-up of 12?months. The data are presented as mean?±?SD (95 CI).Results 88 patients (74.6) with an average age of 50?±?12 (47–52) years were included. Radiographs were available in 68 patients and MRI in 53. The mean follow-up was 3.8?±?1.9 (3.4–4.3) years. The overall VISA-A-G was 81?±?22 (77–86), the SF-12 PCS 54?±?7 (52–55), and the SF-12 MCS 52?±?9 (50–54) points. None of the assessed radiological parameters had a significant influence on the patient-reported outcome following surgical treatment for IAT.Conclusion In this retrospective correlation study, no significant association was found between preoperative radiographic and MRI radiologic parameters for IAT and postoperative patient-reported outcomes (VISA-A-G and SF-12).