Percutaneous Needle Technique is Comparable to Open Z-plasty Surgery for Unilateral Tendon Achilles Lengthening in Children With Cerebral Palsy

This study aims to compare the outcomes of two surgical techniques for Achilles tendon lengthening in ambulatory children with cerebral palsy (CP): the percutaneous needle technique and the traditional open Z-lengthening technique. The primary objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of these techniques in improving ankle dorsiflexion and gait function one year postoperatively. Secondary objectives include assessing postoperative complications, re-rupture rates, and patient satisfaction. The study is designed as a retrospective, matched-pair cohort study, utilizing data from clinical records, 3D gait analysis (3DGA), and structured telephone interviews.