P Boorboor1, L U Lahoda, M Spies, G Kuether, K Waehling, P M Vogt. 1. Klinik und Poliklinik für Plastische, Hand- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Verbrennungs- und Replantationszentrum, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1, 30625 Hannover, Deutschland. boorboor.pejman@mh-hannover.de
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Structural full-thickness defects of the Achilles tendon represent a severely disabling injury which should be treated by reconstruction. This study presents functional outcomes from standardised follow-up of non-reconstructed Achilles tendons with soft tissue coverage alone. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Seven patients were treated with various techniques of soft tissue reconstruction without restoration of the Achilles tendon. After a mean of 11 months postoperatively, the lower extremity was evaluated generally with regard to function, AOFAS score (ankle and hindfoot), and isokinetic torque testing by the Biodex system. RESULTS: All patients showed high mobility, muscle strength, and range of motion at follow-up. The average AOFAS score was 84.7 (maximum 100), and the torque loss in plantar flexion was 44.5% on average compared to the uninvolved side and thus comparable with results after secondary tendon reconstruction. CONCLUSION: After complete loss of the Achilles tendon, compensatory techniques can hinder significant loss of torque and endurance, compared with secondary tendon reconstruction, allowing unsupported mobility and even top athletic performance.
BACKGROUND: Structural full-thickness defects of the Achilles tendon represent a severely disabling injury which should be treated by reconstruction. This study presents functional outcomes from standardised follow-up of non-reconstructed Achilles tendons with soft tissue coverage alone. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Seven patients were treated with various techniques of soft tissue reconstruction without restoration of the Achilles tendon. After a mean of 11 months postoperatively, the lower extremity was evaluated generally with regard to function, AOFAS score (ankle and hindfoot), and isokinetic torque testing by the Biodex system. RESULTS: All patients showed high mobility, muscle strength, and range of motion at follow-up. The average AOFAS score was 84.7 (maximum 100), and the torque loss in plantar flexion was 44.5% on average compared to the uninvolved side and thus comparable with results after secondary tendon reconstruction. CONCLUSION: After complete loss of the Achilles tendon, compensatory techniques can hinder significant loss of torque and endurance, compared with secondary tendon reconstruction, allowing unsupported mobility and even top athletic performance.