Less Invasive Reconstruction of Chronic Achilles Tendon Rupture with free Semitendinosus Tendon Autograft - A case Series

Abstract

Background : Management of chronic AchillesTendon (AT) ruptures is a challenge, especially in the presence of large gaps. Different methods have been described to overcome tendinous defects, however, no consensus has been reached. MaterialS and Methods : Between August 2010 and January 2013, 12 patients with chronic Achilles tendon ruptures with a gap between the ruptures ends more than 5 cm were treated with free Semitendinosus Tendon (ST) autograft through a small incision centered over the proximal stump of the Achilles tendon. The mean follow up period was 20 months. Range (14-25 months). Patients were prospectively evaluated using AOFAS score and SPSS software for statistical analysis. Results : The overall results were excellent according to the American orthopaedic foot and ankle society (AOFAS) hind foot score. There were no wound complications and all patients had better functional improvement than the pre operative condition. CONCLUSION : Less invasive AT reconstruction with free ST autograft is successful in restoring the functional integrity of chronic AT ruptures with good functional improvement and without notable wound complications.