[Ruptures of the Achilles tendon. Comparison of the results of surgical and nonsurgical treatment].

The authors have compared the results obtained in 76 cases of rupture of the tendo Achillis treated conservatively with a previously published series of cases treated surgically. The same assessment of the results was used. The main complication of surgical treatment was skin necrosis; the main complication of conservative treatment was recurrent rupture. To objective assessment, the loss of strength in the triceps surae was about 20 p. 100 in both series. Subjectively, the conservatively-treated patients seemed more satisfied. These findings support the conclusions of other published comparative studies that conservative treatment is worthwhile since it avoids general anaesthesia and hospital treatment. It is indicated when the conditions are favourable. Surgical treatment should be used in young athletes because healing is quicker in cases of recurrent rupture or old ruptures.