In this episode of The PODdoctors podcast, Dr. Damien Dauphinee, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, and Dr. Raafae Hussain, a fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon, evaluate the complexities of an Achilles tendon repair using a Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL) tendon transfer. This particular case involved a patient with a history of clubfoot, multiple surgeries, and a significant Achilles tendon rupture. The doctors explain their surgical approach to repairing the damaged Achilles tendon by harvesting the FHL tendon. They emphasize the importance of this technique in providing the necessary strength and functionality for the patient to regain a normal gait. 

Quotes

• "We did what's called an interference screw or anchor. We drill a pocket hole for that tendon to go through, and then we'll put an anchor in right next to it that will hold that tendon up against that bone without any type of limitations.” -Dr. Raafae Hussain

• “The non-absorbable suture will tear your gloves and tear your finger before it'll break. You can really crank on this stuff, which is perfect for stout, tender repairs where you're going to be putting a tremendous amount of force through this tendon.” -Dr. Damien Dauphinee

Top Takeaways:

• Achilles Tendon Repair with FHL Transfer: The utilization of the FHL tendon to enhance the strength and functionality of a damaged Achilles tendon.
• Surgical Case Details: Insight into a complex foot surgery involving a patient with previous clubfoot reconstructions.
• Advanced Surgical Techniques: The use of advanced techniques, such as the whip stitch and interference screw, to ensure successful tendon transfer.

What You Will Learn:

• The importance of post-surgery protocols, including non-weight bearing periods and early active range of motion exercises.
• Surgical procedure steps and the reasoning behind specific surgical choices.

Resources:

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