Surgical Repair of Ruptures of the Tendo Achillis

Abstract

Clinical data on 163 ruptures of the Achilles tendon demonstrated that recreational activity was a common cause. The technique of surgical repair includes local tendon graft, repair of deep fascia, and an angulated incision that relieves local tissue tension, prevents serious wound complications and provides satisfactory functional results. Measurements of power potential, a velocity-dependent parameter, rather than peak strength, provide a better indication of the true functional result after repair of Achilles tendon ruptures. The isokinetic torque developed in the triceps surae subsequent to surgical repair is 85% of that on the normal side. The peak strength after operation is 101% of the opposite side. Rather than chronic tendonitis or ischemia, uncontrolled power in a suboptimally conditioned musculotendinous unit may cause spontaneous ruptures.