Downloads: 4 | Views: 70 | Weekly Hits: ⮙1 | Monthly Hits: ⮙1

New Innovation and Idea | Medical Surgical | India | Volume 12 Issue 6, June 2023

Unilateral Closed Chronic Achilles Tendon Rupture Treated Surgically with High Strength Pull Out Suture Technique - A Case Study

Aman Mantri | Rahul Shinde | Sayaji Bhamre | Amol Khairnar

Abstract: Introduction: The Achilles tendon is a strong and essential structure that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, allowing for movements such as walking, running, and jumping. Despite its strength, Achilles tendon ruptures (ATR) can occur, commonly observed in men between the ages of 40 to 50 years and can be caused by running, jumping, and other activities that involve explosive contractions. ATR can be managed through various modalities, including the high-strength pull-out suture technique, which is a newer method that has shown promising results in repairing Achilles tendon ruptures. Case Report: A 60-year-old man presented with pain and restricted movement in his left ankle, and MRI revealed a 33mm tear in the Achilles tendon insertion. He underwent surgical repair of the tendon using Krakow's suture technique and was assessed postoperatively using the AOFAS score. The patient's recovery was successful, and he reported improved pain and range of motion. Follow-up imaging confirmed a successful repair, and the patient was able to return to his normal daily activities without pain. Discussion: Conservative management is traditionally sufficient, but surgical intervention is preferred for long-standing cases. The high-strength pull-out suture technique is a low-cost, secure and stable repair method that can withstand high forces and distribute them across a wider area of the tendon. The technique is relatively simple and quick to perform, reducing the risk of complications and speeding up recovery. However, it can be challenging to place the torn end back to its insertion, and there is a risk of infection, which can be controlled with aggressive dressing and antibiotics. Conclusion: This minimally invasive and low cost procedure resulted in a favorable outcome for the patient, with improved pain and function in the affected ankle. Hence this new method might give equal benefits while being more simple and cost-effective than other modalities available.

Keywords: Achillestendon, tendonopathy, endobutton, pull out suture, Thompson test, ankle surgery, foot and ankle

Edition: Volume 12 Issue 6, June 2023,

Pages: 505 - 511