Arthroscopic Treatment of Posterior Impingement of the Hindfoot

OBJECTIVES: Open and arthroscopic techniques have been utilized in the treatment of posterior impingement of the ankle and hindfoot. Because posterior impingement occurs more frequently in patients who repetitively plantarflex the ankle, this population may especially benefit from a procedure that reduces pain and results in maximal range of motion (ROM). The purpose of this study was to assess the outcome of hindfoot endoscopy in patients with posterior ankle impingement through higher level of function outcome measures and physical examination parameters, focused on analysis of ROM. METHODS: 20 ankles (19 patients) were followed prospectively at a minimum 1 year follow-up (mean 38.2 months). 19 of 20 patients were competitive athletes. Patients completed a minimum of 3 months of nonoperative treatment. Diagnoses included os trigonum, tibial exostosis, talar exostosis, loose body or fracture nonunion, and ganglion cyst removal. Patients underwent arthroscopic treatment utilizing a posterior approach; all relevant pathology was addressed. Post-surgery, patients were placed in a splint for 3 to 7 days then placed in a CAM boot for 2 to 3 weeks, weight bearing as tolerated. Physical therapy was initiated within 7-10 days; strengthening exercises were initiated postoperatively at 1 month. RESULTS: At most recent follow-up, VAS Pain and AOFAS Hindfoot scores showed significant improvement (p<0.01) pre to post-operatively; Tegner score remained unchanged (p=0.888). 3 patients were professional athletes; all returned to their previous level of professional activity. ROM variables between affected and unaffected sides reached statistical similarity at most recent follow-up. 15% of patients reported post-operative neuritis. No other complications were reported. CONCLUSION: Posterior ankle arthroscopy allows for maintenance or restoration of anatomic ROM of the ankle and hindfoot, ability to return to at least previous level of activity, and improvement in objective assessment of pain relief and higher level of function parameters. Complications associated with this procedure are minimal.