Table 1.

Pearls and Pitfalls of Endoscopic Calcaneoplasty and Achilles Tendoscopy With Patient in Supine Position

Pearls

The operated leg is lifted up from the operation table by a towel roll or triangular supporting frame under the calf during Achilles tendoscopy.

The triangular supporting frame is put under the knee during endoscopic calcaneoplasty.

The ankle is allowed to undergo plantar flexion by gravity.

Pitfalls

The technique is contraindicated if there is extensive bone formation within the distal Achilles tendon insertion that requires open resection.

Painful insertional Achilles tendinopathy requiring endoscopic detachment of the tendon insertion for debridement is a relative contraindication.

The technique is contraindicated in extensive non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy in which augmentation by endoscopic flexor hallux longus transfer is needed.

The technique is contraindicated if there are concomitant pathologies that require zone 2 flexor hallucis longus tendoscopy or endoscopic adhesiolysis of the flexor hallucis longus muscle.