Modified surgical anchor refixation in older patients with acute proximal hamstring rupture: clinical outcome, patient satisfaction and muscle strength

INTRODUCTION: After conventional surgical refixation of the hamstrings after proximal hamstring rupture, patients frequently experience pain while sitting and deficits in hamstring muscle strength of the operated side. To improve these outcomes, we have modified the surgical anchor placement and have carried out a thorough follow-up examination. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirteen older patients (8 female, 5 males) with a median age of 64.2 (range, 52.1–80.4) years were surgically treated for acute proximal hamstring rupture using modified anchor placement and participated in a follow-up assessment at a median of 46.2 (11.2–75.0) months after surgery. Patients completed the Perth Hamstring Assessment Tool (PHAT), quality of life questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L) and the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), and rated their satisfaction level on a scale from 0 to 100%. Local tenderness on the ischial tuberosity and maximum passive hip flexion were measured on both limbs. Maximum isokinetic knee flexor muscle strength was measured bilaterally using a dynamometer. RESULTS: The median (range) PHAT, EQ-5D-5L and LEFS score were 78.8/100 (54.6–99.8), 0.94/1 (0.83–1) and 88.75/100 (61.25–100). The median satisfaction was 100% (90–100%). Only one patient felt discomfort when the ischial tuberosity was palpated. Neither maximum passive hip flexion nor maximum isokinetic flexor muscle strength differed between the operated and non-operated side (P > 0.58). Clinical scores did not correlate with the leg symmetry index of knee flexor muscle strength (Spearman’s rho < 0.448, P > 0.125). There were no tendon re-ruptures, or postoperative sciatic radiculopathy, at the time of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The modified extra-anatomical anchor placement resulted in good clinical and functional outcome of surgical repair of acute proximal hamstring rupture. Especially the absence of postoperative pain while sitting and the comparable muscle strength to the contralateral side is promising. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04867746, registered.