Incidence and effect of calcifications after open-augmented Achilles tendon repair.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The objective of this study was to analyse the incidence and effect on clinical outcome of post-operative Achilles tendon calcifications after open-augmented repair according to the Silfverskjöld technique.

PATIENTS/METHODS: This retrospective study presents the results of follow-up examinations on 104 patients with Achilles tendon rupture who were treated according to the Silfverskjöld technique. Post-operative calcifications were identified by means of sonography, and clinical outcome was evaluated using the 100 points Thermann score. The average follow-up examination period was 3.7 years with an average patient age of 42.9 years. Two groups were identified and included those with (Group I) and those without (Group II) calcifications. Clinical outcome was evaluated using the Thermann score for both groups and was compared statistically by means of the two random sample t-test.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients (Group I) developed tendon calcifications (14.4%) and 89 none (Group II). Group I scored 88.0 points and Group II 88.1 (good to very good outcome). There were no negative effects on clinical outcome (t = 0.98).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of tendon calcification after open-augmented repair of Achilles tendon rupture was 14.4% with no negative effects on clinical outcome as measured by the Thermann score.