Abstract
Background: Acute rupture of Tendo achillis can be treated by open, percutaneous surgery and minimally invasive technique. Open method reported to have high complication.
Objective: We report the outcome and length of hospital stay with minimally invasive technique with achillion
Design: Non randomised prospective observational study form October 2002 to December 2005
Materials and Methods: 9 male non professional athletes of mean age 38 years (range 23-73) presented with closed rupture were treated surgically using achillon technique were treated with same preoperative cast, post operative orthosis and rehabilitation protocol. All the patients had suture removed at 10 days after the surgery and followed up at 3 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 6 months and yearly.
Results: The average operating time is 38 mins [range 27-58mins]. Mean length of incision is 3.4cm. No patient had clinical DVT, sural nerve disturbance and failure of repair and no bed stay.
Summary: Achillion Method helps to repair tendon under direct visualization, preserving its vascularity. We found no complication in wound healing. This surgical technique reduces financial burden in terms of bed use and wound care to the care provider. Randomised control studies may be necessary to highlight potential cost effectiveness
Correspondence should be addressed to Mr Bimal Singh, BOSA at the Royal College of Surgeons, 35–43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PE
