Table 2.

Pearls and pitfalls

Pearls

(1)A dry environment for the arthroscope should be maintained.

(2)One of the surgical instruments is inserted into the existing defect, which avoids an additional surgical port.

(3)The 2 ports should be far enough apart to adequately cover the surgical field.

(4)Explore carefully to detect foreign objects that need removal.

Pitfalls

(1)If the cavities of the Achilles tendon have not been obliterated completely, infection or delayed healing may result.

(2)If there is a foreign body that is removed, such as a nonabsorbable suture, foreign body reaction and pain may result.