A method of repair for Achilles tendon ruptures without cast immobilization. Preliminary report.

A new technique for the repair of Achilles tendon ruptures has been developed with a Dacron vascular graft used as a tension suture material. The suture is passed through the calcaneal tuberosity and, with two loops applying tension to the tendon at the level of the musculotendinous junction, brings the tendon ends together by creating a solid structure. Post-operative immobilization and its possible adverse sequelae are eliminated by this procedure. The technique was first tested on five dogs with severed Achilles tendons of both hind legs. One side in each animal was repaired with this suture technique; the second leg was left as an untreated control. All the animals recovered from surgery and walked almost normally on the sutured leg within less than three weeks. The dogs did not walk on the unsutured legs. In a second procedure, the control leg was repaired by the same reparative procedure. Equally good results were obtained. The technique was then used on five patients with recent and neglected Achilles tendon ruptures or lacerations. In all instances excellent surgical results were obtained and leg immobilization was virtually eliminated. Physical therapy was begun in the immediate postoperative period. The rehabilitation period was significantly reduced.