Immediate, full weightbearing cast treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures: a long-term follow-up study.

Abstract

Thirty-two patients with 33 ruptures were available for comprehensive evaluation, which included a questionnaire, physical examination, and manual as well as objective (Kin-Com) strength testing. Data excluding Kin-Com strength testing were available in an additional seven patients with seven ruptures; hence, the data are based on these 39 patients with 40 ruptures. Five patients with eight ruptures were excluded from strength testing but were included in our rerupture data, which totaled 44 patients with 48 ruptures. All patients were treated using a standard protocol by a single surgeon. All patients were treated within 11 days of injury, and the average follow-up was 55 months (range, 24-133). Ninety-five percent (38/39) of patients were completely satisfied with their treatment. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle hindfoot scores were >80 in 97.4% of patients, and the rerupture rate was 6.25% (3/48). Calf circumference and ankle range of motion were not statistically different between the two legs. The injured leg tended to be slightly weaker than the uninjured leg, but the difference was not significant for most of the quantitative strength measurements. This study provides data for the Achilles rupture patient who asks, "Is there a treatment option other than surgery?" In addition, the standardized protocol can be utilized to obtain successful outcomes in those who choose nonoperative treatment or are poor surgical candidates.