Summary

This study investigates the effectiveness of combining ultrasound-guided galvanic electrolysis technique, with eccentric exercises in treating patellar tendinopathy. The research demonstrated significant functional improvements. Over 80% of patients returned to pre-injury activity levels post-treatment, reaching 100% within 2.5 years, highlighting the treatment's long-term success.

Abstract

Objectives:
Patellar tendinopathy is a widespread condition affecting both the general population and athletes, accounting for nearly 50% of all sports-related injuries. Various treatment approaches are currently accessible.The aim of this research is to demonstrate the impact of combining ultrasound-guided galvanic electrolysis technique (USGET) with an eccentric exercise program using isoinertial resistance machines in the management of patellar tendinopathy.

Methods

This prospective study involved 51 athlete-patients, age range 17-60 (35.6 y.o average) consecutively treated since 2019, for patellar insertional tendinopathy using ultrasound-guided galvanic electrolysis technique (USGET) and monitored for a duration of 2.5 years. The diagnosis for all patients relied on clinical assessment in conjunction with a color Doppler ultrasound examination conducted using a linear probe with a frequency range of 6-15MHz. Functional assessments were conducted at the initial visit, three months, and 2.5 years utilizing several scales such as IKDC, Kujala, Tegner, Visual Analogue Pain Scale (VAS), Satisfaction Rate, and VISA-P questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS v.18 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois) with statistical significance set at 0.05. Also Fisher's exact test, Chi- square test, was included. ANOVA study was used to analyze the different variables

Results

A notable average improvement of every scale was achieved. The average treatment duration was 6 weeks. By the end of the treatment, more than 80% of the patients had successfully returned to their pre-injury level of physical activity, which increased to 100% at the 2.5 year mark.

Conclusions

The combination of ultrasound-guided galvanic electrolysis technique (USGET) with an eccentric-based rehabilitation program using isoinertial resistance machines yields excellent clinical and functional improvements in patellar tendon health within a long-term period and with minimal morbidity.