Achilles Tendon Repair

The Achilles Tendon connects the calf muscles to the calcaneus (heel bone) and is one of the important tendons in the human body. The main action of the Achilles tendon is foot plantar flexion. Common pathologies include: tendinopathy, tear or rupture. Examples of mechanisms of injury for rupture includes: falling from a height, forceful plantar flexion of the ankle (as in jumping with an extended knee), or using the foot to break a fall if you stumble. Clinically they present with a palpable gap on palpation, increased passive dorsiflexion, lack of heel raise and a positive Thompson Test. Achilles tendon rupture is either managed conservatively with a cast or surgically with an Achilles tendon repair.

Instructions

How is it performed?

During the surgery, an incision is made in the back of the calf. If the tendon is ruptured, the surgeon will stitch the tendon back together. If the tendon is degenerated, the surgeon may remove the damaged part of the tendon and repair the rest of the tendon with stitches.

FAQ

How successful is Achilles tendon surgery?

How Well It Works. Both open and percutaneous surgeries are successful. More than 80 out of 100 people who have surgery for an Achilles tendon rupture are able to return to all the activities they did before the injury, including returning to sports.

What happens if Achilles tendonitis goes untreated?

Untreated Achilles tendonitis can lead to a series of tears within the tendon, making it susceptible to rupture. A rupture of the tendon will most likely require more serious treatment options, including casting or surgery.

Is walking good for Achilles tendonitis?

Even fast walking would likely be ok - but if too painful, try using an insert in the heel. This shortens the length of the Achilles tendon and relieves some of the stress.