Management of Acute Achilles Tendon Ruptures.

Acute Achilles tendon ruptures can be disabling injuries with high personal and societal costs. However, the decision to pursue operative versus nonoperative management following these injuries remains controversial. Functional rehabilitation techniques have been refined such that outcomes may be as good, if not better, with nonoperative treatment. Furthermore, while surgical treatment rates have dramatically decreased in many countries over the prior 15 years, operative repair remains the treatment of choice for most patients in the United States. A critical review is presented regarding outcomes, complications, and rates of return to sport for both pathways to determine the best course of action for patients who sustain this injury.