A Combined Surgical Approach for Extensor Hallucis Longus Reconstruction: Two Case Reports

Abstract

The surgical management of foot tendon injuries is not well-represented in literature. To achieve excellent functional recovery of the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon, we aimed at developing a reliable and feasible reconstructive technique.A surgical technique for delayed reconstruction of the EHL tendon, combining an elongation procedure with second toe extensor tendon transfer, is described in this article.The results of this combined approach for EHL tendon reconstruction were remarkable, since the patients of the two clinical cases reported regained active extension of the hallux after 6 months without any associated complication.This study represents a step forward in foot surgery, since it describes an alternative technique to manage EHL tendon lesions.

Acute Reconstruction of Traumatic Zone IV Re-tear of Extensor Hallucis Longus Tendon using Extensor Hallucis Brevis loop Technique – A Mid-term Follow-up Case Report

“…Duarte and Fradinho [ 21 ] reported good outcomes in two cases of zone 4 EHL reconstruction by EHL lengthening and EDL second toe EDL transfer. Although, tendon lengthening avoids donor site morbidity, theoretically, it may lead to some inherent weakness in already compromised tendon [ 22 ]. Thus, a graft augmentation is usually required to avoid these issues.…”