Radiofrequency coblation for chronic foot and ankle tendinosis.

PURPOSE To evaluate outcomes of radiofrequency coblation for chronic tendinosis of the foot and ankle tendons. METHODS Records of 7 men and 8 women (16 feet) aged 27 to 65 years who underwent radiofrequency coblation for chronic tendinosis (combined with other procedures for other pathology) of the Achilles, posterior tibial, and peroneal tendons were retrospectively reviewed. The visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain status, the Short Form (SF-36) questionnaire for quality of life, and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores for functional status of the patients were determined pre- and post-operatively. RESULTS All patients reported significant reduction in pain at 3 months, with more than 63% attaining VAS scores of 0 at 6 months. AOFAS scores were significantly improved at both 3 and 6 months. Most components of SF-36 scores improved at 6 months except those for general health and role emotional; only those for bodily pain improved significantly. At postoperative month 3 and 6 respectively, 93 and 100% of the patients had their expectations met, whereas 93 and 88% had good-to-excellent satisfaction. There were no major complications. CONCLUSIONS Radiofrequency coblation for chronic tendinosis of the foot and ankle achieves good short-term outcomes and pain relief. It may be combined with other procedures for maximal benefit.