Achilles Tendon Rupture Score Research Articles

The learning curve for minimally invasive Achilles repair using the “lumbar puncture needle and oval forceps” technique

IntroductionAn acute Achilles tendon rupture represents a common tendon injury, and its operative methods have been developed over the years. This study aimed to quantify the learning curve for the minimally invasive acute Achilles tendon rupture repair.MethodsFrom May 2020 to June 2022, sixty-seven patient cases who received minimally invasive tendon repair were reviewed. Baseline data and operative details were collected. The cumulative summation (CUSUM) control chart was used for the learning curve analyses. Achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle/hindfoot score, and visual analog scale (VAS) at 3/6/9/12 months were calculated to assess the clinical outcomes.ResultsThirty-six cases underwent at least a year of follow up and were enrolled in this study. The gender ratio and average age were 80.5% and 32.5 years. The linear equation fitted well (R2 = 0.95), and CUSUM for operative time peaked in the 12th case, which was divided into the learning phase (n = 12) and master phase (n = 24). No significant difference was detected between the two groups in clinical variables, except for the operative time (71.1 ± 13.2 min vs 45.8 ± 7.2 min, p = 0.004). Moreover, we detected one case with a suture reaction and treated it properly.ConclusionMinimally invasive Achilles repair provides an opportunity for early rehabilitation. Notably, the learning curve showed that the “lumbar puncture needle and oval forceps” technique was accessible to surgeons.

PLATELET-RICH PLASMA FOR ACUTE ACHILLES TENDON RUPTURE: RESULTS OF THE PATH-2 STUDY, A DOUBLE-BLIND MULTICENTRE RANDOMIZED PLACEBO-CONTROLLED TRIAL

BackgroundDisability and slow return to sport and work after tendon rupture are major challenges. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is an autologous supraphysiological concentration of platelets from whole blood that has demonstrated positive cellular and physiological effects on healing in laboratory conditions but evidence from adequately powered robust clinical trials is lacking. We aimed to determine the clinical efficacy of PRP for treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture.MethodsIn a placebo-controlled, participant- and assessor-blinded, trial at 19 NHS hospitals we randomly assigned 230 adults starting acute Achilles rupture non-surgical management to PRP injection or dry-needle insertion (placebo) to the rupture gap under local anaesthetic. Patients with confounding or contraindicated concurrent medical conditions were excluded. The primary outcome was muscle-tendon function, assessed by the limb symmetry index (LSI, uninjured limb/injured limb × 100, higher scores better) of the work (Joules) performed during the heel-rise endurance test at 24 weeks. Secondary outcomes were: Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS, 0–100, higher scores better), quality of life (SF-12), pain, and goal attainment. Trial registration: ISRCTN54992179ResultsParticipants were aged mean 46 years and 57 (25%) were female. 103/114 (90%) of the PRP group and all (n=116) in the placebo group received allocated treatment. At 24 weeks, mean LSI was 34.4 for the PRP group and 38.8 for placebo (adjusted mean difference −4.4 95% CI −11.2 to 2.5, n=201) and ATRS was mean 65.2 PRP vs 65.8 (adjusted mean difference −0.6, 95% CI −4.9 to 3.7, n=224). There were no differences between groups in the other secondary outcomes.ConclusionWe found no evidence of PRP efficacy for improving muscle-tendon function or patient-reported recovery after acute Achilles tendon rupture. Our findings challenge the increasing global use of PRP for acute tendon injury and indicate that robust evaluations are required in other applications.

Managing Postoperative Complications in a Patient with Excessive Ankle Stiffness: A Case Study Addressing Balance, Muscle Strength, and Quality of Life

Introduction: Postoperative complications decrease muscle strength and balance. Thus, managing the complications is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes and promoting speedy recovery. This case study explores the use of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and electrotherapy in managing postoperative complications in a patient with excessive ankle stiffness, addressing balance and muscle strength, as they are essential components of functional mobility in patients with ankle stiffness. Case Presentation: A 41-year-old female athlete with Achilles tendon contracture participated in this study. A 12-week IASTM and electrotherapy was implemented. Isokinetic muscle strength, balance, and quality of life were investigated. Results: The results showed significant improvement in the stability index, path length and area, dorsiflexion/plantarflexion peak torque, range of motion (ROM), total work, and reduced passive stiffness. The results of all domains of quality of life (SF-36), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), , Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) improved. The intervention was successful in improving balance, muscle strength, sagittal plane ROM, and quality of life and reduced pain during balance in the patient. Conclusions These findings suggest that the intervention may be an effective treatment option for individuals with excessive ankle stiffness and related balance and strength deficits.

Modified gastro-soleus turn-down flap for chronic or neglected achilles tendon ruptures

BackgroundAchilles’ tendon chronic rupture is a common entity that is usually misdiagnosed or mistreated. Hence, she was presented to us later or with complications affecting her gait. Surgical resection is needed to either bridge the gap or reinforce the strength of the tendon repair.ObjectivesOur study's goal was to assess the clinical results of repairing chronic Achilles’ tendon lesions employing the middle segment of the proximal portion of the tendon (gastro-soleus), as a turn-down flap.MethodsOur prospective interventional single arm study included 18 patients with chronic Achilles’ tendon rupture attending at Al-Azhar university hospitals in Cairo, Egypt from May 2020 to April 2023. Diagnosis of the patients was confirmed by radiographic and clinical investigations. They were all treated with the same open reconstruction procedure using a modified GSF. The average follow-up was 12 months. The results of this study were assessed by the Achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, and capacity to perform repeated heel raises on the affected side.ResultsThe mean operative time was 72.77 min. The median (IQR) time of reconstruction was 10 (8–12) after the injury. The median (IQR) length of flab was 4.5 (4.3–5) 9 (Table 2). No intraoperative complications occurred. The typical follow-up period was 12 months (6–18 months). In terms of the ATRS, we found a significant reduction from 82.8 ± 3 preoperatively to 20.8 ± 6.7 at 12 months postoperatively (P value = 0.001). As regards the AOFAS score, it was increased from 49.5 ± 10 preoperatively to 83.8 ± 8.5 12 months postoperatively (P = 0.001). In terms of the post operative complications, there was no re-rupture. Two patients experienced superficial wound infection which improved with daily dressing and antibiotics. Additionally, two patients had slight ankle stiffness four months after the operation, which improved after programmed rehabilitation at the sixth month.ConclusionThe modified GSTF is a simple, safe, well-tolerated and effective method of treatment with excellent functional results and greater patient content.

Long-term results and complication following Achilles tendon rupture repair

Introduction Currently,there is no consensus regarding optimal treatment options of Achilles tendon rupture. The purpose of this study was to evaluate long term results of Achilles tendon repair using different surgical techniques, assess complication rate and subjective satisfactionMethods The study included patients treated for Achilles tendon rupture using minimally invasive and open surgical repair. Complications including re-rupture, infection, deep vein thrombosis and neuropraxia were identified. In order to evaluate the factors influencing the risk of postoperative complications, logistic regression analysis was performed. The Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS) and the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) evaluated subjective outcomes.Results 130 patients with Achilles tendon tear were enrolled (123 primary and 7 revision cases). In primary repairs percutaneous technique was used in 60 % of cases (74/123), mini open technique – in 16 % (19/123), and open technique – in 24 % (30/123). Re-rupture occurred in 2.4 % of patients treated with minimally invasive techniques. There were no repeated ruptures following open repairs. Predominant number of infections was registered after open repairs and made 10 %, while minimally invasive techniques had 3.2 % of infections. Logistic regression analyses showed that steroid injection, open repair, application of tapes and autografts increased the risk of infectious complications. There were no significant differences in ATRS and AOFAS scores between different primary Achilles tendon repair techniques (p > 0.05).Discussion Results, obtained in the current study, are consistent with previously published data.Conclusions Open Achilles tendon repair showed a higher rate of infections, and lower rate of re-ruptures. The anamnesis of steroid injection, open repair, application of tapes and autografts increases the risk of infectious complications.

Acute Achilles tendon rupture: modern management

Achilles tendon rupture is a common injury and its incidence is increasing. There is a large body of literature on the subject and much of it debates the influence of management on re-rupture rates. Operative treatment was thought to be superior in reducing the risk of re-rupture. However, it must be balanced against the risks, in particularly wound infection and breakdown, and sural nerve injury. Minimally invasive surgery aimed to reduce wound complications but has frequently been associated with a higher risk of sural nerve damage and irritation. The introduction of functional rehabilitation, which includes early weight bearing and range of motion within an orthosis, has been pivotal in improving outcomes particularly in non-operatively managed patients. More recent evidence suggests that re-rupture rates are now similar between operatively and non-operatively managed patients when incorporating a functional rehabilitation protocol. The publication of the Achilles Tendon Rupture Score, which has been validated specifically for this injury, has been helpful in providing a more detailed picture of post-injury symptoms and function. The studies which have included this as an outcome measure have also shown comparable results between operatively and non-operatively treated patients.

2023 J. Leonard Goldner Award Winner: Data Censoring Likely Biased the Largest Randomized Trial of Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatment Against Surgery: A Monte Carlo Analysis

Category: Sports; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Randomized controlled trials of surgery versus nonoperative management of Achilles ruptures have been numerous but relatively small. A recent large RCT, published in the New England Journal of Medicine by Myhrvold and coauthors, addressed this with 554 patients enrolled in 3 arms: nonoperative, open surgery, and minimally invasive surgery. The authors found no difference between groups in the primary outcome, the validated Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS), but a significantly higher rate of rerupture in the nonoperative group (6.2% vs. 0.6% vs 0.6%). The online trial protocol indicates that patients who suffered a rerupture were excluded from further data collection and analysis, but those who had surgical infections and nerve injuries were not. This selective data censoring may have biased the trial outcome against surgery. Methods: To determine if the potential effect from excluding reruptures from final analysis was numerically sufficient to alter the trial results, data models were generated by Monte Carlo analysis using the pre- and post-intervention ATRS score means and standard deviations as ground truths. A model was created of all three groups at their original size. The previously excluded rerupture patients were then added back in at an assumed ATRS score. The original statistical methods of the RCT were used to determine any between-group differences. The analysis was repeated 100,000 times for each possible ATRS score for the rerupture patients. Results: The MCID for the ATRS score is 10 points. Repeated trials analysis found that when rerupture patients were added back into the groups at an assumed ATRS score equal to the reported final mean for nonoperatively treated patients (76), the percentage of model trials that had outcomes favoring a surgical group over nonoperative treatment was 7.9%. This baseline model inherently assumes there is no dysfunction associated with a rerupture. When rerupture was assumed to have associated dysfunction, the percentage of model trials that had outcomes favoring surgery to statistical significance increased as the assumed degree of dysfunction was increased: Rerupture ATRS scores at 1 MCID below nonoperative mean (66): 13.7% Rerupture ATRS scores at 2 MCID’s below nonoperative mean (56): 22.0% Conclusion: Rerupture is almost exclusively a complication of nonoperative treatment. By excluding rerupture patients from further data collection and analysis, the protocol eliminated the likely worst outcomes from the nonoperative treatment while retaining the likely worst outcomes from surgery. While the RCT reported no difference between groups at p<.05, Monte Carlo modeling indicates that at reasonable assumed values of ATRS scores for rerupture patients, the effect of excluding rerupture patients from analysis was potentially large enough to bias the primary trial outcome against surgery. Future trials that follow all patients through their entire treatment course regardless of complications will be required.

Surgical Management of Chronic Achilles Tendon Ruptures: A Systematic Review and Proposed Treatment Algorithm.

As no evidence-based treatment guidelines exist for chronic Achilles tendon rupture (CATR), a systematic review of the literature was performed to compare the different treatment options and recommend a literature-based algorithm. In June 2022, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were systematically reviewed based on the PRISMA guidelines. The level of evidence (LOE) and quality of evidence were evaluated, and statistics on clinical outcomes and complications were calculated. Twenty-seven studies with 614 patients were included. Three studies were LOE III and 25 studies were LOE IV. The mean Achilles tendon rupture score improved from a preoperative weighted mean of 38.8 ± 12.4 to a postoperative score 90.6 ± 4.7. The overall complication rate was 11.4%. Single techniques were used in 23 studies and dual techniques were used in 5 studies. The FHL tendon transfer was the most frequently used technique. We devised an algorithmic approach based on time from injury to surgical intervention and the length of the gap between the tendon stumps: >3 months: FHL transfer; <3 months (a) gap <2 cm, end-to-end repair; (b) gap 2 to 5 cm, gastrocnemius transfer, (c) gap >5 cm, semitendinosus autograft. Surgical management of CATR produced improvements in patient-reported outcome scores at midterm follow up, but a high complication rate (11.4%) was noted. Our proposed treatment algorithm may assist in shared decision making for this complex problem.

The influence of the site of rupture and gap distance in acute Achilles tendon rupture treated with functional rehabilitation

AimTo determine the influence of gap distance and its location on clinical and radiological outcomes in patients with acute rupture of Tendo-Achilles (TA) treated non-operatively with functional rehabilitation. MethodsTwenty-six patients with acute complete TA rupture underwent ultrasound (US) scanning within a week of their injury. The measurements taken included the distance of the rupture from the enthesis and the gap distance between the tendon edges in varying degrees of ankle and knee positions. All patients were managed non-operatively in functional weight-bearing orthoses. Nineteen patients were then followed up at a mean of 6.1 years (range 5.8–6.5) to assess their clinical and radiological outcomes. The outcomes included ultrasound assessment of tendon healing, Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS) and modified Leppilahti Score (mLS). ResultsIn the initial ultrasound, the mean distance of the rupture from the enthesis was 52 mm (range: 40–76). The mean gap distance with the foot plantigrade was 11.4 mm, which reduced to 4.8 mm with the foot in equinus. At final follow up, no re-ruptures had occurred. The mean ATRS and mLS were 86 and 71 respectively. There was a significant correlation between the distance of the rupture from the enthesis with the MLS total score (p = 0.02), mLS Fatigue domain score (p = 0.03), and the ATRS domains of strength (p = 0.04) and fatigue (p = 0.02). There was no significant correlation between the measured gap distance with respect to the mLS, ATRS or individual ATRS domain scores. Also, there was no significant difference in ATRS and mLS outcomes when comparing tendons with respect to healed tissue appearance and fibre orientation on ultrasound. ConclusionThe initial gap distance had no relationship with any of the measured clinical outcomes at the final follow up. The distance of the gap from the enthesis, however, may carry a greater prognostic value following non-operative treatment of Achilles tendon injuries.

Reparación percutánea del tendón de Aquiles con sutura reabsorbible: resultados y complicaciones

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes and complications of percutaneous achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures. Material and methodsA prospective cohort study including patients treated for an achilles tendon rupture from January 2016 to March 2019 was conducted. Inclusion criteria≥18 years of age, non-insertional (2–8cm proximal to insertion) achilles tendon ruptures. Open or partial ruptures were excluded. The diagnosis was based on clinical criteria and confirmed by ultrasonography in all patients. Epidemiological data, rupture and healing risk factors, previous diagnosis of tendinopathy, pre-rupture sport activity, job information, mechanism of rupture and the time in days between lesion and surgery were collected.Patients were assessed using visual analogue scale at the 1, 3, 6 and 12-month follow-up. The achilles tendon rupture score were assessed at the 6 and 12 month follow-up. Ultrasound was performed at the 6-month follow-up. The re-rupture rate and postoperative complications were also collected. ConclusionsIn our experience, percutaneous achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures in patients with an acute achilles tendon rupture has shown good functional results but with a high incidence of complications. Although most complications were transitory sural nerve symptoms, this complication would be avoided in patients treated conservatively. For this reason, conservative treatment associated with an early weightbearing rehabilitation protocol should be considered a viable option for patients with achilles tendon ruptures, mainly in cooperative young patients.

Photobiomodulation Associated With Conservative Treatment for Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Double-Blind, Superiority, Randomized Controlled Trial

To investigate the effects of photobiomodulation on Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) treated conservatively. Prospective, patient- and assessor-blinded, parallel, randomized controlled trial. Patients with acute ATR treated conservatively. Thirty-four male individuals with acute unilateral ATR treated conservatively (N=34), equally divided in 2 groups: photobiomodulation group (PBMG) and sham group, with mean age of 45.5±9.47 and 48.7±8.38 years, respectively. All participants underwent through an immobilization period, followed by rehabilitation sessions (2 d/wk for 12 weeks) comprising strengthening, range of motion, and balance/weightbearing exercises. In PBMG, the tendon was irradiated with a photobiomodulation cluster (1 904 nm/50 mW infrared laser, 4 858 nm/50 mW infrared diodes, and 4 658 nm/40 mW red diodes; power density of 105 mW/cm2 per cluster area) during the immobilization period (2 d/wk for 8 weeks) and the sham group received a simulation of the procedure with no irradiation. Outcomes were assessed at the removal of the immobilization 12 and 16 weeks after tendon rupture. Primary outcome was the Achilles Tendon Rupture Score. Secondary outcomes included Numerical Pain Rating Scale at rest and during effort, plantar flexor strength, and ankle range of motion. Both groups demonstrated an increase in the Achilles Tendon Rupture Score and improvements in range of motion, plantar flexor strength, and pain. There were no significant differences in outcomes between the 2 groups (P>.05) except in pain during walking, which was significantly lower in the PBMG in week 12 (P<.01, effect size=0.56) and week 16 (P<.01, effect size=0.55). Photobiomodulation associated with conservative treatment is not superior to conservative treatment alone for improving function in patients with acute ATR.

Synthetic Graft Augmentation Is Safe and Effective for the Repair of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture in Patients With Preexisting Tendinopathy

To assess the safety and report the clinical outcomes of synthetic graft augmentation using polypropylene (PP) mesh in the repair of acute Achilles tendon (AT) rupture in patients with preexisting tendinopathy. Methods: Patients who underwent open repair for acute AT rupture at our institution between April 2017 and March 2019 were retrospectively identified. The inclusion criteria were acute AT rupture in patients with preexisting tendinopathy. All patients included in the study underwent acute repair augmented by an inlay PP mesh and had 30 months' follow-up. Patient characteristics, operative details, and outcomes were analyzed. Continuous data were described by mean, standard deviation, median, and range. The Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to analyze the change in patient-reported outcome measures. The significance level was set at a P-value of .05. Thirteen patients were included. There were 5 female and 8 male patients, withan average age of 52 years (range 49-56 years). No cases of rerupture or graft-related complications requiring additional treatment occurred during mean follow -up of 38 months. All patients reported good functional outcome, as shown from nonsignificant difference between the preinjury and 38-month postoperative Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (88.5 ± 2.2 vs 89.2 ± 2.2, P= .107) and the excellent postoperative American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle/Hindfoot Scale score (92.22 ± 2.2) at last follow-up. At the end of follow-up, all patients were able to perform single-legged heel rise as the noninvolved side. By average of 16 weeks, all patients returned to their preinjury activity level. The use of inlay PP mesh to augment the repair of acute AT rupture in patients with preexisting tendinopathy appears to be safe and effective, allowing early return to preinjury activity level with favorable clinical outcomes. Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Primary augmentation of percutaneous repair with flexor hallucis longus tendon for Achilles tendon ruptures reduces tendon elongation andmay improve functional outcome.

Achilles tendon ruptures (ATR) result in loss of strength and function of the gastrosoleus-Achilles tendon complex, probably because of gradual tendon elongation and calf muscle atrophy, even after surgical repair. Flexor hallucis longus (FHL) augmentation not only reinforces the repair and provides new blood supply to the tendon, but also protects the repair, internally splinting the repaired Achilles tendon, maintaining optimal tension. We prospectively compared the clinical outcomes of patients with acute ATR, managed with either percutaneous repair only or percutaneous repair and FHL augmentation. Patients with acute ATR undergoing operative management were divided into two groups. Thirty patients underwent percutaneous repair under local anesthesia, and 32 patients underwent percutaneous repair augmented by FHL tendon, harvested through a 3cm longitudinal posteromedial incision, and transferred to the calcaneus, under epidural anesthesia. All patients were treated by a single surgeon between 2015 and 2019 and were followed prospectively for 24months. The percutaneous only group was younger than the augmented one (35.4 ± 8.0 vs 40.4 ± 6.6years, p = 0.01). In the augmented group, 25 patients stayed overnight and only 5 were day cases, whereas in the percutaneous only group 4 patients stayed overnight and 28 of them were day cases (p < 0.001). The duration of the procedure was significantly longer in the augmented group (38.9 ± 5.2 vs 13.2 ± 2.2min, p < 0.001). At 24months after repair, the Achilles tendon resting angle (ATRA) was better in the augmented group (-0.5 ± 1.7 vs -4.0 ± 2.7, p < 0.001), as was Achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS) (91.7 ± 2.2 vs 89.9 ± 2.4, p = 0.004). Calf circumference of the injured and the non-injured leg did not differ between the groups, as did the time interval to single toe raise and the time interval to walking in tiptoes. Although plantarflexion strength of the operated leg was significantly weaker than the non-operated leg in both groups, the difference in isometric strength of the operated leg between the groups was not significant at 24months (435 ± 37.9 vs 436 ± 39.7N, n.s.). Percutaneous repair and FHL tendon augmentation may have a place in the management of acute Achilles tendon ruptures, reducing tendon elongation and improving functional outcome. Level II.

Artículo traducido] Reparación percutánea del tendón de Aquiles con sutura reabsorbible: resultados y complicaciones

Background and objectiveThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes and complications of percutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures. Material and methodsProspective cohort study including 52 patients treated for Achilles tendon ruptures (January 2016 to March 2019). Inclusion criteria≥18 years of age, non-insertional Achilles tendon ruptures. Diagnosis based on clinical criteria, confirmed by ultrasonography. Assessment using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS) and ultrasound. Re-rupture rate and postoperative complications were collected. ResultsVAS scoring (SD) at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months follow-up (FU) were 2.63 (0.83), 1.79 (1.25), 0.69 (1.09) and 0.08 (0.39), respectively. Mean (SD) ATRS score was 92.45 points at 6 months (6.27) and 94.04 points at 12 months FU (4.59). Three re-ruptures (5.77%) occurred with a mean time between surgery and re-rupture of 108.75 days (SD 28.4), all of them within 4-month FU. No ruptures at the time to return to sports activity. Thirteen complications (25%) (3 re-ruptures, 1 superficial wound infection and 9 transitory sural nerve injuries). ConclusionsPercutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures in patients with acute Achilles tendon ruptures has shown good functional results but with a high incidence of complications. Although most complications were transitory sural nerve symptoms, these would be avoided with conservative treatment. Conservative treatment associated with an early weight-bearing rehabilitation protocol should be considered a viable option for patients with Achilles tendon ruptures, specially in cooperative young patients.

Percutaneous achilles tendon repair with absorbable suture: Outcomes and complications

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes and complications of percutaneous achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures. Material and methodsA prospective cohort study including patients treated for an achilles tendon rupture from January 2016 to March 2019 was conducted. Inclusion criteria≥18 years of age, non-insertional (2–8cm proximal to insertion) achilles tendon ruptures. Open or partial ruptures were excluded. The diagnosis was based on clinical criteria and confirmed by ultrasonography in all patients. Epidemiological data, rupture and healing risk factors, previous diagnosis of tendinopathy, pre-rupture sport activity, job information, mechanism of rupture and the time in days between lesion and surgery were collected.Patients were assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS) at the 1, 3, 6 and 12-month follow-up. The achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS) were assessed at the 6 and 12 month follow-up. Ultrasound was performed at the 6-month follow-up. The re-rupture rate and postoperative complications were also collected. ConclusionsIn our experience, percutaneous achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures in patients with an acute achilles tendon rupture has shown good functional results but with a high incidence of complications. Although most complications were transitory sural nerve symptoms, this complication would be avoided in patients treated conservatively. For this reason, conservative treatment associated with an early weightbearing rehabilitation protocol should be considered a viable option for patients with achilles tendon ruptures, mainly in cooperative young patients.

Comparison of Ma-Griffith combined with a minimally invasive small incision to a modified suture technique for the treatment of acute achilles tendon ruptures

BackgroundThe Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the human body, although it is also prone to injury and rupture. Currently, the best treatment method for acute Achilles tendon rupture remains controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of the Ma-Griffith method combined with a minimally invasive small incision (M-G/MISI) with the modified suture technique (MST).MethodsWe conducted a retrospective review of the medical records of all patients who underwent treatment for acute Achilles tendon rupture between January 2012 and January 2020 at our hospital. Demographic characteristics, operative details, and postoperative complications were recorded, and data were statistically analyzed to compare the treatment efficacy of the two operative methods.ResultsA total of 67 patients were enrolled in the study, 34 of whom underwent M-G/MISI treatment, and 33 of whom underwent MST treatment. The intraoperative blood loss in the M-G/MISI group (16.47 ± 13.23 ml) was significantly lower than that in the MST group (34.55 ± 13.01 ml), and the difference was statistically significant (P ˂0.001). The incision in the M-G/MISI group (3.79 ± 1.81 cm) was significantly shorter than that in the MST group (5.79 ± 1.00 cm), and the difference was statistically significant (P˂0.001). The Achilles tendon rupture score and the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score were higher than those of the MST group at the sixth month after the operation (P˂0.001). Postoperatively, there was 1 case of traumatic Achilles tendon rupture in the M-G/MISI group and 1 case each of infection and deep vein thrombosis in the modified suture group.ConclusionsCompared with the MST group, the M-G/MISI group had better Achilles tendon and ankle function scores at 6 months postoperatively, and less bleeding and shorter incisions. M-G/MISI is less invasive than MST.

Percutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable suture: Outcomes and complications

Background and objectiveThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes and complications of percutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures. Material and methodsProspective cohort study including 52 patients treated for Achilles tendon ruptures (January 2016 to March 2019).Inclusion criteria: ≥18 years of age, non-insertional Achilles tendon ruptures. Diagnosis based on clinical criteria, confirmed by ultrasonography.Assessment using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS) and ultrasound. Re-rupture rate and postoperative complications were collected. ResultsVAS scoring (SD) at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months follow-up (FU) were 2.63 (0.83), 1.79 (1.25), 0.69 (1.09) and 0.08 (0.39), respectively. Mean (SD) ATRS score was 92.45 points at 6 months (6.27) and 94.04 points at 12 months FU (4.59). Three re-ruptures (5.77%) occurred with a mean time between surgery and re-rupture of 108.75 days (SD 28.4), all of them within 4-month FU. No ruptures at the time to return to sports activity. Thirteen complications (25%) (3 re-ruptures, 1 superficial wound infection and 9 transitory sural nerve injuries). ConclusionsPercutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures in patients with acute Achilles tendon ruptures has shown good functional results but with a high incidence of complications. Although most complications were transitory sural nerve symptoms, these would be avoided with conservative treatment. Conservative treatment associated with an early weight-bearing rehabilitation protocol should be considered a viable option for patients with Achilles tendon ruptures, specially in cooperative young patients.

Panda rope bridge technique versus open repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture: A comparative clinical study

PurposeThe treatment options of acute Achilles tendon rupture (AATR) remain controversial. This article aims to compare the efficacy of a new surgical procedure, the panda rope bridge technique (PRBT) with open surgery of AATR. MethodsNinety-eight patients with AATR were recruited, 53 underwent the PBRT, and 45 underwent open surgery. The operation time, postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score, Achilles Tendon Rupture Score, complications and time to return to work and restore exercise were documented. ResultsThe average operation time, intraoperative blood loss and complication rate were 35.1 min, 18.2 ml and 3.8%, respectively, in the PRBT group, which were significantly lower than those of the open surgery group (P<0.001). The post-operative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score of 99.6 and the Achilles Tendon Rupture Score of 97.5 in the PRBT group were significantly higher than that of the open surgery group (P<0.001). The time to return to work and return to exercise were shorter in the PRBT group (P<0.001). ConclusionCompared to open surgery, PRBT is a better approach to the management of AATR. PRBT offers accelerated recovery, lower occurrence of post-operative complications and improved recovery of ankle joint function.

Mini-Open Achilles Tendon Repair: Improving Outcomes While Decreasing Complications.

An acute rupture of the Achilles tendon is a traumatic injury that can cause considerable morbidity and reduced function. Nonoperative intervention may put patients at higher risk of rerupture, whereas surgical intervention carries risk of infection, wound complications, and iatrogenic nerve injury. The mini-open Achilles tendon repair technique has been popularized in helping decrease complications. The goal of this study was to examine and compare the functional outcomes and rate of complications in patients treated with a mini-open repair technique versus a traditional open repair for acute Achilles tendon ruptures. A retrospective review was performed of all patients with a complete Achilles tendon rupture that were treated by a single foot and ankle fellowship-trained surgeon. Functional outcome scores were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle scoring system (AOFAS) and the Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS). Eighty-one patients with a complete Achilles tendon rupture underwent mini-open repair and 22 patients underwent traditional open repair surgery between 2013 and 2020. The mean follow-up was 38.40 months (range, 12-71). Mean preoperative AOFAS and ATRS improved in the mini-open group from 45.60 and 47.18 respectively, to 90.29 and 87.97 after surgery (p < .05). Mean preoperative AOFAS and ATRS scores for the traditional open repair (n = 22) cohort were 44.02 and 42.27, respectively. Postoperatively, the AOFAS and ATRS scores improved to 85.27 and 86.64 (P value < .05), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative ATRS scores. However, the mini-open repair group showed a statistically higher postoperative AOFAS score (90.30) than the traditional open-repair group (85.27) (P value < .05). The overall complication rate for our study was 2.9% (2 mini-open repair and 1 traditional open repair). The complication rate in the mini-open repair group and traditional open repair cohort were 2.4% and 4.5%, respectively (P value > .05). One patient in the mini-open repair cohort (1.2%) reruptured his Achilles tendon 4 months postoperatively. A second patient in the mini-open repair group (1.2%) developed a superficial skin infection and suture irritation. One patient (4.5%) in the traditional open repair group developed a superficial skin infection. There were no sural nerve injuries in our series. The mini-open approach to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon is a viable treatment option to decrease the incidence rate of postoperative complications and rerupture rates while also producing a superior cosmetic result.Level of Evidence: 3 (retrospective cohort study N ≥ 30).

Release of gastrocnemius aponeurosis and suture of the Achilles tendon end scar tissue managing the chronic Achilles tendon rupture

To investigate the clinical effect of scar tissue suture at the broken end of Achilles tendon after gastrocnemius aponeurosis release in the treatment of chronic Achilles tendon rupture. The clinical data of 17 patients with old achilles tendon rupture treated from January 2017 to December 2019 were analyzed retrospectively, including 15 males and 2 females, aged 26 to 53 years with an average of (35.2±11.6) years old, and the time from injury to operation was 37 to 92 days with an average of (49.3±13.3) days. Myerson's classification included 6 cases of typeⅡ and 11 cases of typeⅢ. The defect of the broken end of Achilles tendon was 2 to 5 cm with an average of(4.1±1.5) cm after partial scar tissue was removed. All patients were treated with gastrocnemius aponeurosis, appropriate excision of scar tissue at the broken end of Achilles tendon and direct suture. The continuity and healing of Achilles tendon were evaluated by color Doppler ultrasound 3 months after operation. The ankle plantar flexor strength was measured by ankle plantar flexor strength tester before operation and 1 year after operation. American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle hindfoot score (AOFAS) and Achilles tendon rupture score were used before operation and 1 year after operation Achilles tendon total fracture score (ATRS) was used to evaluate the clinical rehabilitation of Achilles tendon rupture. All patients were followed up for 12 to 18 months with an average of(13.6±1.8) months. The surgical incision healed in stageⅠ. Color Doppler ultrasound showed good continuity of Achilles tendon, local Achilles tendon slightly thickened and irregular fiber direction. The ankle plantar flexor force (92.2±3.9) N at 1 year after operation was significantly higher than that before operation (29.5±4.2) N (P<0.05);One year after operation, the AOFAS(91.20±3.30) was significantly higher than that before operation (42.20±4.40)(P<0.05);the ATRS (90.70±3.00) was significantly higher than that before operation(40.00±2.90)(P<0.05). The gastrocnemius aponeurosis release combined with scar suture of Achilles tendon end is an effective technique for the treatment of chronic Achilles tendon rupture, avoid injury to hallux flexor longus or flexor digitorum longus, with the plantar flexor muscle strength of the ankle was recovered well, is an effective method to treat chronic Achilles tendon rupture.