Peroneal Tendon Debridement
William B. Hogan; Eric M. Bluman, MD, PhD
Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Tenosynovitis of the peroneal tendons is a common lower extremity problem that is often mistaken for other ankle pathology. Diagnosis is suggested with thorough history and physical examination and confirmed with radiographic studies when necessary. Patients with less acute or more severe presentation may improve with rest and physical therapy alone. When conservative management fails, surgical intervention is aimed at excising inflamed synovium with debridement and repair of any tears in the peroneal tendons. Recent literature has emphasized the increased use of tendoscopic approaches to peroneal pathology, although most studies to date have been too underpowered to suggest superiority to an open approach. This article presents a case of acute tenosynovitis treated by open surgical debridement and irrigation. Tendoscopy was deferred as the size and nature of this patient’s injury warranted an open repair.