JOT - 2026-08-01 - Journal Article; Case Reports; Review
Posterior Tibial Tendon Transfer and Achilles Tendon Lengthening for Foot Drop.
Mercer NP, Lezak BA, Lowe DT, Egol KA
Topics
Key Takeaway
Posterior tibial tendon transfer through the interosseous membrane combined with percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening restored ankle dorsiflexion in a single case of chronic post-traumatic foot drop from irreversible peroneal nerve injury.
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Summary
This case report describes surgical management of chronic post-traumatic foot drop via posterior tibial tendon transfer through the interosseous membrane with concurrent percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening. The paper highlights technical steps and postoperative rehabilitation without reporting quantitative functional outcome data. The authors conclude this combined approach provides durable dorsiflexion restoration in irreversible peroneal nerve palsy.
Key Limitation
Single-case design with no quantitative functional outcomes (e.g., AOFAS, dorsiflexion arc, gait analysis) makes it impossible to assess efficacy or generalizability.
Original Abstract
This review describes a case of chronic post-traumatic foot drop managed with posterior tibial tendon transfer through the interosseous membrane and percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening. Key technical considerations and postoperative rehabilitation principles are highlighted. This approach provides a durable solution for restoring ankle dorsiflexion and improving ambulation in patients with irreversible peroneal nerve injury.