Tendoscopic Synovectomy of Tibialis Anterior Tendon of the Ankle

Tenosynovitis of the tibialis anterior tendon may occur as an overuse injury due to repetitive foot dorsiflexion. Most cases respond to conservative treatment with rest, shoe modification, anti-inflammatory agents, and physical therapy. Surgery may be required for chronic cases recalcitrant to conservative treatment. Other causes of tibialis anterior tenosynovitis include rheumatologic and infectious conditions. Classically, an operation on the tibialis anterior tendon is performed with open approach requiring dissection of the extensor retinacula. The purpose of this Technical Note is to describe the technical details of a tendoscopic approach to synovectomy of the tibialis anterior tendon. This can preserve the integrity of the extensor retinacula.