What is FHL surgery?

This procedure repositions the flexor hallucis longus tendon, (commonly called the “FHL” tendon) to reinforce a diseased Achilles tendon. The FHL tendon travels along the inner side of the ankle and foot. It is responsible for flexing the big toe.

How is FHL treated?

Treatment of tenosynovitis of the FHL involves resting the area and reducing the inflammation with ice and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Physical therapy can also help reduce inflammation with stretching, strengthening, massage, ultrasound and other modalities.

What is FHL tenosynovitis?

FHL Tenosynovitis is a condition where inflammation or swelling occurs to the sheath through which the FHL tendon passes. Often the terms FHL tendinopathy and tenosynovitis are used interchangeably. The two conditions often occur together.

How many patients have undergone surgery for FHL tenosynovitis?

Methods: Twenty-seven patients underwent surgery for FHL tenosynovitis over a period of 18 months. The mean age of the patients was 34 years. All patients related the onset of the condition with an ankle sprain. Eighteen patients were on worker’s compensation and five had sport-related accidents.

How is FHL tenosynovitis classified by anatomic zone?

FHL tenosynovitis can be classified by anatomic zone: zone 1 is posterior to the ankle joint, zone 2 is from the fibro-osseous tunnel underneath the sustentaculum tali to the knot of Henry, and zone 3 is from the knot of Henry to the FHL insertion at the base of the distal hallucal phalanx.8.

How is arthroscopic treatment of tenosynovitis of the flexor?

Arthroscopic treatment of tenosynovitis of the flexor hallucis longus tendon Arthroscopic release of the FHL tendon was a valid procedure. It was a minimally invasive surgery that allowed good visualization of the involved structures and yielded good results.

When do you need surgery for FHL tendinopathy?

In advanced FHL Tendinopathy and Tenosynovitis, surgery can be utilised as a last resort following the failure of conservative treatment strategies to reduce the tendon’s constriction. If surgery is required, physiotherapy is usually followed to assist with rehabilitation and return to regular activity.