Augmented Repair of Achilles Tendon Ruptures

摘要

Summary Objectives: Augmented repair techniques are used in defective Achilles tendon ruptures and provide excellent functional results in active individuals,but it carries an incidence of wound complications like tendon adhesion to the skin. Tendon adhesion is an important minor complication. We presentan augmentation technique for Achilles tendon rupture that we believe prevents tendon adhesion to the skin.Material and methods: Four male patients with a mean age of 38 (29 to 56) were diagnosed as having a ruptured Achilles tendon. Duration ofruptures was 1, 2, 35 and 45 days. We used a new flap technique in these patients with defective acute and chronic Achilles tendon ruptures. A strip ofaponeurotic flap, 8 cm long and 2cm wide, was elevated proximally from the median raphe of gastrocnemius, and twisted 180 degrees on itself frommedial sides, so its smooth external surface lies next to the skin and covers the rupture site, and the plantaris tendon was incorporated in the repairsite.Results: The mean follow-up period was 42 months (23 to 60). There were no reruptures. One had skin necrosis and healed satisfactorily withdebridement and secondary sutures. None of them had tendon adhesion to the skin. Satisfactory overall results and very good functioning wasachieved in four patients.Conclusion: If augmented repair of Achilles tendon rupture is preferred, this technique can be used satisfactorily and tendon adhesion to the skin isprevented.?2006, Fırat üniversitesi, Tıp Fakültesi Top