Minimally Invasive Stripping for Achilles Tendon: A Novel Option to Treat the Tendinopathy of the Main Body

Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is commonly defined as failed healing response characterized by an increase in noncollagenous matrix and proliferation of altered tenocytes and degradation of collagen fibers. Diagnosis is made by clinical evaluation, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasonography (US) imaging is used for differential diagnosis or is not a clear case. The first line of management is conservative, while open or minimally invasive techniques are considered in the second line. Generally, after 6 months of nonoperative management, surgery is indicated. Minimally invasive stripping of the Achilles tendon in case of tendinopathy of the main body is effective, inexpensive, and technically simple. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a control group and more patients are needed to confirm clinical outcomes.