Abstract
Aim: To study the results of a percutaneous suture technique for the management of acute ruptures of the Achilles’ tendon.
Method: Ten patients with acute Achilles’ tendon rupture were entered into the study. We utilised a percutaneous surgical technique and functional post-operative regime described in the current literature.
Results: All were recreational sports people with an average age of 42.9 years. At an average follow-up of six months there were no re-ruptures, no wound complications, no sural nerve injuries, and no episodes of deep vein thrombosis. No patient had any discomfort during normal walking. In comparison to the uninjured side, there was still a mild reduction in calf circumference but minimal deficits in endurance, strength or range of motion.
Conclusions: The technique was easily performed and overall the treatment appeared to have very high patient acceptance and low morbidity. The well described benefits of early mobilisation were evident.
The abstracts were prepared by Professor Alan Thurston. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the New Zealand Orthopaedic Association, PO Box 7451, Wellington, New Zealand.
