Bipolar Radiofrequency Microtenotomy for Chronic Achilles Tendinosis

Tendinosis is a degenerative condition that affects patients of all activity levels. It affects many of the tendons within the foot and ankle, particularly the Achilles tendon. This has been shown to be a primarily hypovascular phenomenon, leading to a poorly organized collagen response without an inflammatory component. To optimize healing potential, it is necessary to stimulate a robust vascular response within these areas of poor perfusion. The use of bipolar radiofrequency represents a novel approach by which to create an environment in which angiogenesis is stimulated and clinical recovery can be hastened. The ease of this approach and its minimally invasive nature make it an attractive and exciting alternative to conventional open procedures that can require a more prolonged treatment course.