A Retrospective, Multicentric Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of Transcatheter Arterial Micro Embolization for Refractory Achilles Tendinopathy.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the short- to mid-term outcomes of transcatheter arterial microembolization (TAME) as a therapeutic intervention for pain and disability associated with chronic Achilles tendonitis (AT) refractory to conservative treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This multicenter retrospective study included 82 patients (67 men and 15 women) who underwent TAMEs using imipenem/cilastatin sodium for refractory chronic AT between May 2019 and February 2023. The mean age was 47.3 ± 12.7 years. A Numerical Rating Scale (NRS, 0-10) was used to assess pain at baseline and 1, 2, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. Clinical success was defined as a decrease of > 50% in the NRS score at 12 months compared with baseline. The Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment (VISA-A) score was used to evaluate pain and function at baseline and 6 and 24 months.

RESULTS

Clinical success was achieved in 67 (81.7%) of the 82 patients. The baseline mean NRS was 6.7 ± 1.5, which improved to 4.2 ± 2.0, 3.3 ± 2.0, 2.8 ± 2.2, 2.3 ± 2.2, 1.8 ± 2.2, and 1.5 ± 2.2 at 1, 2, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively (all p < 0.001). The mean baseline VISA-A score was 48.4 ± 19.1, which improved to 76.9 ± 17.4 and 82.2 ± 17.0 at 6 and 24 months, respectively (all p < 0.001). No major complications or tendon ruptures were observed during the 2 year follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

TAME for chronic AT is a safe and effective treatment that improves long-term functional outcomes and can be offered to patients resistant to conservative management.