Abstract
Conventional surgical methods for iliotibial band friction syndrome (ITBFS) may affect
the iliotibial band (ITB), delaying return to sports activities or impeding performance.
We have developed a minimally invasive method. This study retrospectively analyzed
the outcomes of this procedure in individuals with ITBFS. This study included 34 knees
of 31 individuals. Surgery involved lengthening the central part of the ITB by splitting
it into a superficial and a deep layer, maintaining the anterior and posterior fibers
immediately above the lateral epicondyle. Outcomes included time to resume sports
activity, personal best times to run a 5000-m race before and after surgery, and 2-month
post-surgery muscle strengths. The mean postoperative time to return to competition
was 5.8 weeks. Personal best times of 5000-m race improved in 13 of 17 runners. Two
months post-surgery, the mean extensor muscle strengths on the healthy and affected
sides did not significantly differ nor did the flexor muscle strengths. In ITBFS,
the ITB itself is normal. Lengthening the limited region of the ITB immediately above
the lateral femoral epicondyle removes the cause of ITBFS, with a reduction in inflammation.
This technique resulted in early return to competition without degrading performance.
Key words
iliotibial band - sports disorder - return to competition - surgery
