Functional outcomes of repair of Achilles tendon using a biological open surgical method

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the mid-term functional outcomes of ankles following biological open Achilles tendon repair and early postoperative mobilization.Methods: The study retrospectively evaluated 22 male patients who underwent one-sided biological open Achilles tendon repair. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score, isokinetic muscle strength and endurance tests and active angle reproduction test at 15° of dorsiflexion and 20° of plantarflexion of the injured and uninjured sides were measured and compared.Results: Mean age was 38.6 years and mean follow-up was 33.7 months. One patient had rerupture following a blunt trauma 1 month after operation. No other complication was seen. Mean AOFAS hindfoot score was 97.9 (range: 90 to 100). Peak isokinetic torque at 30°/sec (isokinetic muscle strength) and total work at 120°/sec (isokinetic muscle endurance) did not significantly differ between the operated and uninjured ankles. Proprioceptive evaluation with active angle reproduction test at 15°of dorsiflexion and 20° of plantarflexion was similar between the two sides.Conclusion: Biological open Achilles tendon repair with early postoperative mobilization appears to be a convenient intervention for acute Achilles tendon rupture in active young patients. Treatment results in low complication rates and restores ankle strength, endurance and position sense.