Low-temperature Radiofrequency Coblation Micro-tenotomy for the Treatment of Achilles Tendinopathy

Launched by CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · Mar 26, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating a new treatment for Achilles tendinopathy, a condition that causes pain in the back of the ankle and is often due to overuse or injury. The trial will compare two groups of adults with this condition: one group will receive a special procedure called radiofrequency coblation micro-tenotomy along with a type of surgery to clean out the tendon area, while the other group will only have the cleanup surgery. All participants will also go through a 12-week exercise program designed to help strengthen the calf muscles and improve ankle movement.

To be eligible for the trial, participants need to be adults over 18 years old and have a confirmed diagnosis of Achilles tendinopathy based on ultrasound tests. Those with a recent history of major injury or surgery to the same leg, or certain health issues that might affect their ability to participate, will not be included. Throughout the trial, participants will be closely monitored, and their progress will be assessed using various measures, including pain levels and tendon thickness, to see if the new treatment is more effective than the standard approach.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • The inclusion is ultrasound-confirmed Achilles tendinopathy. Adults (age \>18) with clinically diagnosed midportion Achilles tendinopathy will be recruited and scheduled for ultrasound screening. Ultrasonography diagnostic criteria include a thickened Achilles tendon and a Colour Doppler of at least 1 out of 3 in the Öhberg score 2-6 cm proximal to the Achilles tendon insertion. Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment -Achilles (VISA-A) scores below 60 points.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients will be excluded if they had a history of major injury or surgery on the affected lower limb in the past year and have mental/physical limitations hindering the participant's ability to complete assessments (ankle arthritis, neuromuscular disorders, etc.), including severe cognitive impairment and psychiatric disorders.