Percutaneous versus Open Repair of the Ruptured Achilles Tendon

2005 ◽  
Vol 33 (9) ◽  
pp. 1369-1379 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrej Čretnik ◽  
Miloš Kosanović ◽  
Vladimir Smrkolj

Background Controversy regarding the optimal treatment of the fresh total Achilles tendon rupture remains. Purpose To compare the results of percutaneous and open Achilles tendon repair. Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods The results of 132 consecutive patients with acute complete Achilles tendon rupture who were operated on exclusively with modified percutaneous repair under local anesthesia from 1991 to 1997 and followed up for at least 2 years were compared to the results of 105 consecutive patients who were operated on exclusively with open repair under general or spinal anesthesia in the same period. Results There were significantly fewer major complications in the group of percutaneous repairs in comparison with the group of open repairs (4.5% vs 12.4%; P = .03), particularly necrosis (0% vs 5.6%; P = .019), and a lower total number of complications (9.7% vs 21%; P = .013). There were slightly more reruptures (3.7% vs 2.8%; P = .680) and sural nerve disturbances (4.5% vs 2.8%; P = .487) in the group of percutaneous repairs, with no statistically significant difference. Functional assessment using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scale and the Holz score showed no statistically significant difference. Conclusion The results of the study support the choice of (modified) percutaneous suturing under local anesthesia as the method that brings comparable functional results to open repair, with a significantly lower rate of complications.

2016 ◽  
Vol 2016 ◽  
pp. 1-8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yangjing Lin ◽  
Liu Yang ◽  
Li Yin ◽  
Xiaojun Duan

Background. Chronic Achilles tendon rupture is usually misdiagnosed and treated improperly. This study aims to better understand the treatment of chronic Achilles tendon rupture.Methods. Patients who were not able to perform a single-limb heel rise were chosen. Pre- and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were conducted. By evaluating the presence or absence of Achilles tendon stumps and the gap length of rupture, V-Y advancement, gastrocnemius fascial turndown flap, or flexor halluces longus tendon transfer were selected for tendon repair. The function of ankle and foot was assessed by American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores and Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS).Results. Twenty-nine patients were followed up. One patient had superficial incision infection, which was healed after debridement and oral antibiotics. Three months postoperatively, MRI showed some signs of inflammation, which disappeared at one or two years postoperatively. All patients were able to perform a single-limb heel rise. Mean AOFAS scores and ATRS scores were increased at the latest follow-up.Conclusion. Surgical options can be determined by evaluating the presence of the Achilles tendon stumps and the gap length, which can avoid using the nearby tendon and yield satisfactory functional results.


2020 ◽  
Vol 28 (10) ◽  
pp. 3309-3317
Author(s):  
Simon Svedman ◽  
Gunnar Edman ◽  
Paul W. Ackermann

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate whether patient subjective and functional outcomes after Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) are related to deep venous thrombosis (DVT) during leg immobilization. Methods A cohort study with prospectively collected randomized data was conducted between 2010 and 2017. Two-hundred and fifty-one Patients with an Achilles tendon rupture (mean age = 41 ± 8), treated with uniform surgical techniques, were retrospectively analyzed. DVT incidence at 2 and 6 weeks was assessed using compression duplex ultrasound. At 12 months patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS), Foot- and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), Physical Activity Scale (PAS) and functional outcome with the calf-muscle endurance test. ANOVA analyses were used and adjusted for assumed confounding factors (patient age, sex, BMI and rehabilitation). Results The total DVT incidence was 122 out of 251 (49%). Patients suffering a DVT exhibited significantly lower ATRS at 1 year compared to patients without DVT (mean 76 vs 83, 95% CI 71–79 vs 80–87; p < 0.01). Sixty-seven percent (95% CI 57–77%) of the patients devoid of DVT reported a good outcome (ATRS > 80) compared to 51% (95% CI 41–61%) of the patients sustaining a DVT (p < 0.05). Quality of life displayed significantly better outcome in the non-DVT versus DVT patients (mean = 75 (95% CI 71–79) vs. mean = 68 (95% CI 64–72); p < 0.05). A significant difference in total concentric work was observed between non-DVT and DVT patients (median = 1.9 kJ (IQR = 0.9 kJ) vs. median = 1.6 kJ (IQR = 1.0 kJ); p < 0.01). Conclusion Sustaining a DVT during leg immobilization significantly impairs patient-reported outcome at 1 year after surgical repair of ATR. Level of evidence III.


2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (4) ◽  
pp. 247301141771543 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert G. Dekker ◽  
Charles Qin ◽  
Cort Lawton ◽  
Muturi G. Muriuki ◽  
Robert M. Havey ◽  
...  

Background: Soft tissue complications after Achilles tendon repair has led to increased interest in less invasive techniques. Various limited open techniques have gained popularity as an alternative to open operative repair. The purpose of this study was to biomechanically compare an open Krackow and limited open repair for Achilles tendon rupture. We hypothesized that there would be no statistical difference in load to failure, work to failure, and initial linear stiffness. Methods: A simulated Achilles tendon rupture was created 4 cm proximal to its insertion in 18 fresh-frozen cadaveric below-knee lower limbs. Specimens were randomized to open or limited open PARS Achilles Jig System repair. Repairs were loaded to failure at a rate of 25.4 mm/s to reflect loading during normal ankle range of motion. Load to failure, work to failure, and initial linear stiffness were compared between the 2 repair types. Results: The average load to failure (353.8 ± 88.8 N vs 313.3 ± 99.9 N; P = .38) and work to failure (6.4 ± 2.3 J vs 6.3 ± 3.5 J; P = .904) were not statistically different for Krackow and PARS repair, respectively. Mean initial linear stiffness of the Krackow repair (17.8 ± 5.4 N/mm) was significantly greater than PARS repair (11.8 ± 2.5 N/mm) ( P = .011). Conclusion: No significant difference in repair strength was seen, but higher initial linear stiffness for Krackow repair suggests superior resistance to gap formation, which may occur during postoperative rehabilitation. With equal repair strength, but less soft tissue devitalization, the PARS may be a favorable option for patients with risk factors for soft tissue complications.


2012 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 15-20 ◽  
Author(s):  
Erin E. Klein ◽  
Lowell Weil ◽  
Jeffrey R. Baker ◽  
Lowell Scott Weil ◽  
Wenjay Sung ◽  
...  

Purpose: Debate exists over optimal treatment for acute Achilles tendon ruptures. Recent literature suggests the mini-open technique may provide the reliability of the open repair with the decreased complication rate of non-operative treatment. This retrospective review compares acute tendon ruptures treated with one of two techniques: open repair (TO) or mini-open repair (MOA). Methods & Results: Records were reviewed and 34 patients were found to meet the inclusion criteria for open or mini-open repair of an acute Achilles tendon rupture with follow up of at least 12 months. TO (n=16) and MOA (n=18) had no statistically significant differences in age at time of injury [TO: 41 + 2.5 years (range 20 – 68); MOA: 46 + 2.5 years (range 33 – 73)] or time between injury and surgical repair [TO: 15 + 2 days (range 2 – 30); MOA: 15 + 2 days (range 2 – 30)]. Post-operative VISA-A scores were 82 + 10 (range 42 – 98) and 92 + 5 (range 66 – 100) for TO and MOA, respectively. Significant differences were found in the time between surgical intervention and beginning of rehabilitation [TO: Post op day 37 + 5 (range 21 – 46); MOA: Post op day 19 + 2 (range 7 – 32)] and the time between surgical intervention and full return to activity [TO: Post op month 7 + 1 (range 4 – 11); MOA: Post op month 5 + 0.6 (range 4 – 11)]. Conclusion: These results suggest that the mini-open repair provides acceptable surgical outcomes while optimizing patient function after Achilles tendon repair. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level III: Retrospective Comparative


2015 ◽  
Vol 2 (2) ◽  
pp. 77-79 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jambu Nageswaran ◽  
Samuel Chittaranjan Bedford ◽  
Ganesan Ganesan Ram

ABSTRACT The existing scoring system like American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS)-ankle hindfoot scale, Leppilahti et al scoring system, Achilles tendon total rupture score, foot and ankle outcome score, the physical activity scale (PAS) questionnaire and Tegner activity score were not designed to evaluate all the parameters following surgical treatment of Achilles tendon rupture. Hence, we developed a comprehensive score called the comprehensive Sri Ramachandra Medical College (SRMC) scoring system. We compared the results of 60 patients who were surgically treated for acute Achilles tendon rupture using our comprehensive SRMC scoring system with the most commonly used AOFAS-ankle hindfoot scale. Results We found that there was 6.7% poor results using our scoring system, whereas no poor results using AOFAS scoring system mainly because our scoring system also assesses quality of life, patient satisfaction and tendon strength. Similarly, there was 10% fair results in our scoring system compared to 3.3% in AOFAS scale indicating that our scoring system is more sensitive. Comprehensive SRMC scoring system was found to be reliable statistically as per alpha method (α = 0.7787) and was statistically significant at p < 0.001. Conclusion Comprehensive SRMC scoring system was found to be superior to AOFAS scale specifically for analyzing Achilles tendon repair. Poor results are likely to be picked up by our scoring system which has been shown in our results. How to cite this article Nageswaran J, Ram GG, Bedford SC. Ankle Hindfoot Scale vs Comprehensive Srmc Scoring System in Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture. J Foot Ankle Surg (Asia- Pacific) 2015;2(2):77-79.


2019 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Po-Yen Ko ◽  
Ming-Tung Huang ◽  
Chia-Lung Li ◽  
Wei-Ren Su ◽  
I-Ming Jou ◽  
...  

Abstract Purpose To mitigate the risk of poor wound healing and of infection associated with the open repair of Achilles tendon midsubstance ruptures, minimally invasive techniques have been developed. We report our preliminary results after reviewing our “jigless knotless internal brace technique.” Methods Patients were placed in prone position and a transverse 3-cm incision was made proximal to the palpable ruptured end. The proximal ruptured end was pulled out, gently debrided, and sutured using Krackow locking loops. Percutaneous sutures were crisscrossed through the distal tendon stump and looped around the Krackow sutures over the proximal stump. The ipsilateral Krackow sutures and the contralateral crisscrossed sutures were subcutaneously passed through two mini-incisions over the posterior calcaneus tuberosity and seated at the tuberosity with two 4.5-mm knotless suture anchors. All patients underwent the same post-operative rehabilitation protocol and regular follow-ups for at least 1 year. Results We recruited 10 patients (mean age, 37.3 years) who scored 100 points on the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale, and who returned to their preoperative exercise levels 1-year post-operatively with no complications. Conclusion Our method is simple, effective, and requires no special tools. It might be a reliable option for Achilles tendon repair. Level of evidence III


2017 ◽  
Vol 45 (12) ◽  
pp. 2864-2871 ◽  
Author(s):  
David P. Trofa ◽  
J. Chance Miller ◽  
Eugene S. Jang ◽  
Denzel R. Woode ◽  
Justin K. Greisberg ◽  
...  

Background: Most Achilles tendon ruptures are sports related. However, few studies have examined and compared the effect of surgical repair for complete ruptures on return to play (RTP), play time, and performance across multiple sports. Purpose: To examine RTP and performance among professional athletes after Achilles tendon repair and compare pre- versus postoperative functional outcomes of professional athletes from different major leagues in the United States. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: National Basketball Association (NBA), National Football League (NFL), Major League Baseball (MLB), and National Hockey League (NHL) athletes who sustained a primary complete Achilles tendon rupture treated surgically between 1989 and 2013 were identified via public injury reports and press releases. Demographic information and performance-related statistics were recorded for 2 seasons before and after surgery and compared with matched controls. Statistical analyses were used to assess differences in recorded metrics. Results: Of 86 athletes screened, 62 met inclusion criteria including 25 NBA, 32 NFL, and 5 MLB players. Nineteen (30.6%) professional athletes with an isolated Achilles tendon rupture treated surgically were unable to return to play. Among athletes who successfully returned to play, game participation averaged 75.4% ( P < .001) and 81.9% ( P = .002) of the total games played the season before injury at 1 and 2 years postoperatively, respectively. Play time was significantly decreased and athletes performed significantly worse compared with preoperative levels at 1 and 2 years after injury ( P < .001). When players were compared with matched controls, an Achilles tendon rupture resulted in fewer games played ( P < .001), decreased play time ( P = .025), and worse performance statistics ( P < .001) at 1 year but not 2 years postoperatively ( P > .05). When individual sports were compared, NBA players were most significantly affected, experiencing significant decreases in games played, play time, and performance. Conclusion: An Achilles tendon rupture is a devastating injury that prevents RTP for 30.6% of professional players. Athletes who do return play in fewer games, have less play time, and perform at a lower level than their preinjury status. However, these functional deficits are seen only at 1 year after surgery compared with matched controls, such that players who return to play can expect to perform at a level commensurate with uninjured controls 2 years postoperatively.


QJM ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 114 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nabil Abdel Moneam Ghaly ◽  
Atef Mohamed Fathy Elbeltagy ◽  
Amr Farouk Abdel Rahman ◽  
Mahmoud Ahmed Hamed

Abstract BACKGROUND The aim of this study is to compare open repair and minimally invasive repair in acute Achilles tendon rupture in adults regarding operative techniques, functional outcome and complications. DESIGN A prospective randomized controlled comparative trial. METHODS 40 consecutive cases with acute complete Achilles tendon rupture were divided randomly in 2 equal groups (20 treated by open Krackow repair and 20 treated by minimally invasive repair with the PARS device), average age 41 years, follow up time was average of 7 months. Patients were assessed clinically and functional scoring system of postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot score (AOFAS) was used postoperatively. RESULTS Our results found that there were no significant differences between both groups in rates of postoperative complications (MIS group 10%, open repair group 15; P = 0.134). PARS group had greater postoperative AOFAS score, early rehabilitation, better cosmetic appearance and smaller scar length than open Krackow repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture. CONCLUSIONS We have found out that minimally invasive techniques such as the PARS are clinically and biomechanically suitable alternatives to open repair based on both clinical outcomes and repair strength.


2021 ◽  
pp. 036354652110444
Author(s):  
Chul Hyun Park ◽  
Hongfei Yan ◽  
Jeongjin Park ◽  
Min Cheol Chang

Background: Repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture using the Achillon device is a representative mini-open repair technique; however, the limitations of this technique include the need for special instruments and decreased repair strength. A modified mini-open repair using ring forceps might overcome these limitations. Purpose: To compare the Achillon device with ring forceps in mini-open repairs of acute Achilles tendon rupture. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Fifty patients (41 men and 9 women) with acute Achilles tendon rupture on 1 foot were consecutively treated using mini-open repair techniques. The first 20 patients were treated using the Achillon device (Achillon group), and the subsequent 30 were treated using a ring forceps (forceps group). Clinical, functional, and isokinetic results and postoperative complications were compared between the groups at the last follow-up. Clinical evaluations were performed using the AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society) score, Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score, length of incision, and operation time. Functional evaluations included active range of motion of the ankle joint, maximum calf circumference, hopping test, and single-limb heel rise (SLHR). Isokinetic evaluations were performed using the isokinetic test for ankle plantar flexion. Results: The AOFAS score ( P = .669), Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score ( P = .753), and length of incision ( P = .305) were not significantly different between the groups (mean ± SD, 90.1 ± 8.7, 88.3 ± 9.9, and 2.7 ± 0.3 cm in the Achillon group vs 92.2 ± 9.4, 89.9 ± 10.9, and 2.5 ± 0.4 cm in the forceps group, respectively). Operation times in the Achillon group were significantly shorter than those in the forceps group (41.4 ± 9.6 vs 62.8 ± 14.1 minutes, P < .001). The maximum height of the SLHR ( P = .042) and the number of SLHRs ( P = .043) in the forceps group (79.7% ± 7.4% and 72.9% ± 10.2%) were significantly greater than those in the Achillon group (75.3% ± 7.1% and 66.7% ± 11.0%). No significant differences were detected between the groups in mean peak torques for plantar flexion at angular speeds of 30 deg/s ( P = .185) and 120 deg/s ( P = .271). There was no significant difference in the occurrence of postoperative complications between the groups ( P = .093). Conclusion: The ring forceps technique is comparable to the Achillon technique with respect to clinical, functional, and isokinetic results and postoperative complications. Given that no special instrument is required, the ring forceps technique could be a better option for acute Achilles tendon rupture repair.


2014 ◽  
Vol 2 (11_suppl3) ◽  
pp. 2325967114S0012
Author(s):  
Hamza Özer ◽  
Hakan Selek ◽  
Gülcan Harput ◽  
Ali Öznur ◽  
Gül Baltacı

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the outcomes after open repair of Achilles tendon rupture with augmented volar turndown gastrocnemius flap and deep posterior crural fasciotomy. Methods: Twenty-three (22male/1female) patients with acute Achilles tendon injury were operated. Open end to end repair and augmentation with a volar turndown gastrocnemius flap and fasciotomy of the deep posterior compartment was performed in each patient. Home physiotherapy program was instructed for each patient. Muscle strength, balance and jump performance were assessed. Results: All patients returned to their preinjury activity level and repairs healed without any major complication. One patient had serous drainage who did not require surgical intervention (4,3%). There was no significant difference between involved and uninvolved leg in terms of concentric and eccentric muscle strength (p=0.82 and p=0.53, respectively). In Y balance test, there was no significant difference between involved and uninvolved legs in anterior (p=0.06), posteromedial (p=0.97) and posterolateral (p=1.00). In addition, there were no significant differences between leg in vertical jump (p=0.16) and one leg hop (p=0.15) tests. AOFAS Hindfoot score was 98.6±2.3 (93-100). Conclusion: Open end to end repair of the Achilles tendon rupture with augmentation and fasciotomy of the deep posterior compartment healed without any major complication. Fasciotomy of the deep posterior compartment decreased the tension at the skin repair site while decompressing the supeficial compartment anteriorly. Additionally, the augmented bulky repair construct of the Achilles tendon cambered volarly through the deep posterior compartment and decreased irritation sense during and after tendon healing.


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