Dr. Vulcano, Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center, has led a groundbreaking study on a minimally invasive procedure for treating Achilles tendinopathy.

This innovative technique, known as percutaneous Zadek osteotomy (ZO), involves making two small incisions in the heel to remove a 10mm wedge of bone, optimizing tendon biomechanics.

Patients undergoing this procedure can experience relief within six weeks, significantly faster than traditional open surgery, which can require up to a year for full recovery.

The minimally invasive approach not only reduces postoperative pain but also allows athletes to return to their workouts within weeks, showcasing its efficiency.

Dr. Vulcano emphasizes the significant benefits of this procedure for athletes, allowing them to resume their training much sooner than with traditional methods.

Dr. Vulcano notes that the majority of patients suffering from Achilles tendinopathy are non-athletic women in their 40s and men in their 60s.

Dr. Vulcano's study highlights high patient satisfaction and low complication rates associated with this new surgical technique.

In contrast, the percutaneous Zadek osteotomy has proven to be a more effective solution for those who fail non-operative treatments.

Mount Sinai Medical Center, founded in 1949, is the largest independent teaching hospital in South Florida, known for its comprehensive care across various medical specialties.

Overall, the percutaneous Zadek osteotomy represents a significant advancement in the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy, offering faster recovery and improved patient outcomes.

The study analyzed patient-reported outcomes with a minimum follow-up of two years, confirming the procedure's effectiveness and safety.

While first-line treatments for Achilles tendinopathy often include conservative therapies, over 80% of patients do not respond to these methods.