Achilles Tendon Disorders

​Minimally Invasive Surgery for the achilles tendon represents a novel approach to treatment of orthopedic problems in the Achilles tendon. The gradual change of philosophy in the management of ankle surgery means that patients require a less invasive approach to surgery and a consequent improvement in recovery time. Describing the techniques and, importantly, the indications for minimally invasive procedures for the management of achilles tendon ailments, this book explains the management of various conditions and how they can be approached using minimally invasive techniques.This handbook provides an instant reference source for specialists and trainees alike, for those needing a ‘to the point’ companion when performing when treating disorders of the achilles tendon.​

Disorders of the Achilles tendon are universal, affecting people in a wide range of age groups. Because the Achilles tendon is one of the most pow- ful musculotendinous structures in the body, the impact of an injury to the Achilles tendon becomes magnified. There is a wide range of disorders or problems that can involve the insertional region, where pathology may rest with bone, tendon, or bursae. A completely different set of pathologic entities resides in the noninsertional region, one of which may include the frustrating degenerative tendinopathy. As our growing population ages but remains phy- cally active longer into life, the incidence of these disorders will continue to increase. I am proud to be given the opportunity to write the foreword to this text, which is intended for foot and ankle surgeons worldwide. Seldom does a book on a single entity become a current concepts review, as this work has. Too often, textbooks are not published for several years after the chapters have been written, making them obsolete upon publication. Not so with this book, which deals with timely topics on the Achilles tendon. Dr. James Nunley has compiled this work in slightly over a year, thus providing the reader with sta- of-the-art material. Dr. Nunley had the foresight to create a much needed techniques-oriented book dealing with the complexities of the Achilles tendon. His approach was to develop a comprehensive guide to managing Achilles tendon problems.

This book will be of considerable interest to students, practitioners (Doctors, Physiotherapists, and other health care professionals), and researchers who deal with the complex structure of tendons and the need to effectively address tendon disorders. The book is divided into three sections: (1) Basic Biology and Biochemical Markers; (2) Metabolic Disorders; and (3) Novel Therapies. The first section, devoted to the basic biology of tendons, is aimed at those individuals who want to gain basic information on tendons and the subsection on biochemical markers is chiefly aimed at researchers who are developing new studies within this field. The section on metabolic disorders is mainly directed at practitioners who desire to know how metabolic disorders can affect tendons in order to optimize treatment for their patients. Finally, the section on novel therapies is focused on some new treatment options within this field, and discussions regarding how management of tendon disorders needs to incorporate perspectives on current understanding of tendon metabolism.

Tendon ailments are a significant cause of morbidity among athletes of all levels and are increasing in prevalence. Their management is often empirical, and para-scientific, only looking at the biological aspects of tendon ailments. This book conveys a comprehensive and concise body of knowledge on the management of tendon problems in sportspeople with practical details of clinical protocols. Tendon Injuries: Basic Science and Clinical Medicine is specifically dedicated to the clinical aspects of tendinopathy and provides the required knowledge and scientific basis for the sports medicine practitioner, orthopedic specialist and student facing upper and lower limb tendon ailments in athletes. A comprehensive review of tendon disorders is given and modern criteria of management outlined to form the basis of effective clinical management of this group of patients.

Surgery is favoured in competing athletes and in cases where the rupture has become chronic. Conservative treatment is a good alternative for managing acute ruptures in normally active patients as well as in elderly and non-active patients.

​Minimally Invasive Surgery for the achilles tendon represents a novel approach to treatment of orthopedic problems in the Achilles tendon. The gradual change of philosophy in the management of ankle surgery means that patients require a less invasive approach to surgery and a consequent improvement in recovery time. Describing the techniques and, importantly, the indications for minimally invasive procedures for the management of achilles tendon ailments, this book explains the management of various conditions and how they can be approached using minimally invasive techniques.This handbook provides an instant reference source for specialists and trainees alike, for those needing a ‘to the point’ companion when performing when treating disorders of the achilles tendon.​