A new method of surgical treatment of patients with chronic distal Achilles tendon rupture

Abstract

To improve postoperative outcomes in patients with distal Achilles tendon rupture by using of a new method of surgical treatment. The authors proposed a new method to restore the Achilles tendon for its distal rupture (within 2 cm from attachment to the calcaneus). This approach implies forming a canal in the calcaneus and minimally invasive harvesting of the plantar tendon. At the next stage, the plantar tendon is passed through the canal of the calcaneus in U-shaped fashion and proximal part of Achilles tendon with maximum approximation of its fragments and imposing of interrupted sutures on the plantar and Achilles tendons to hold the position. The end of plantar tendon is used to reinforce damaged area. The schemes and surgical stages are shown in the figures. We reported a patient with distal Achilles tendon rupture and postoperative outcome. An above-mentioned approach was applied in 26 patients. The control group consisted of 21 patients who underwent recovery with anchor fixers. Early and long-term postoperative results, as well as adverse events were analyzed in both groups. Biomechanical parameters of gait were evaluated from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine using podography and functional myography. We confirmed an advantage of treatment in the main group.