[Rupture of the Achilles tendon after local steroid injection. Case reports and consequences for treatment].

It is known that Steroids increase the risk for tendon ruptures. Despite this local steroids are still used in the treatment of achilles tendinitis. Three cases are demonstrated. All of them show an unusual rupture mechanism. Intraoperatively necrotic tendon changes are seen. All patients receive an open tendon reconstruction with healthy, autologous material. Although there is a delayed healing in one case, all patients show favourable results one year postoperatively with return to full range activity levels and are able to participate in sports.