[Short-term clinical effects of mini-invasive surgical method by Achillon in repair of acute achilles tendon rupture].

OBJECTIVE

To assess the short-term effect of the mini-invasive surgical method by Achillon in repair of acute achilles tendon rupture.

METHODS

Between December 2009 and February 2010, 11 patients (11 feet) with acute achilles tendon ruptures were treated, including 8 males (8 feet) and 3 females (3 feet) with an average age of 35.4 years (range, 23-58 years). There were 9 cases of jump injury, 1 case of glass cut injury, and 1 case of fall injury. The results of Thompson test were positive in 11 cases (11 feet). According to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scoring system, the score was 53.19 +/- 6.31. MRI indicated that the gap of the acute achilles tendon rupture was 1-5 cm (3.8 cm on average). The interval between injury and operation was 2-7 days (3.6 days on average). An approximately longitudinal 3-4 cm incision was performed and the ruptured achilles tendon was repaired by use of Achillon. Early rehabilitation was carried out.

RESULTS

The operation time was 27-58 minutes (38 minutes on average). The hospitalization time were 2-3 days (2.5 days on average). Superficial wound infections occurred in 2 cases, and wound healed after dressing change; other incision healed by first intention. All the patients were followed up 5-8 months with an average of 6.7 months. No wound problems, sural nerve injuries, or re-ruptures occurred in the other cases. After a 3-month follow-up, all patients were able to return to normal walking. The AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was 94.32 +/- 4.23, showing significant difference when compared with that before operation (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The technique with Achillon offers patients a safe procedure for repair of acute achilles tendon ruptures and early active rehabilitation can be carried out.