Repair of Achilles tendon ruptures with Dacron vascular graft.

A technique has been developed for the repair of Achilles tendon ruptures that allows for early mobilization of the patient. A Dacron vascular graft is woven from distal to proximal and across the site of the rupture in a Bunnell-type fashion. The patients are immobilized in a short-leg cast for two weeks and are then fitted for a posterior fiberglass splint. Seven patients with acute ruptures who were treated with repair with the Dacron graft were followed for a period ranging from ten to 38 months. They were allowed to return to their normal level of activity approximately five months after surgery. There have been no reruptures. This technique also holds particular promise for the late reconstruction of an Achilles tendon rupture as well as for the treatment of partial tears in the severely degenerated tendon.