Reconstruction of achilles tendon recurrent ruptures / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

ObjectiveRecurrent rupture of Achilles tendon is a severe complication after primary repair.The optimal treatment remains controversial.This study was in aiming to explore the risk factors of recurrent ruptures of Achilles tendon,to evaluate the indication,outcome and complications of reconstructing Achilles tendon recurrent ruptures by V-Y advancement flap and Flexor Hallucis Longus tendon (FHL) transfer.MethodsWe retrospectively studied 16 cases who underwent reconstruction of Achilles tendon recurrent ruptures from Mar,2006 to Jan,2010.Among them there were 12 males and 4 females with the mean age of 50.9 years(35-72 years).The period of time between recurrent rupture and primary operation was 6-49 weeks(ave.21.8 weeks).The follow-up interval was 6-52 months (ave.27.5 months).During operatin,4 cases with a rupture gap less than 4 cm had received V-Y advancement flap and 12 cases with a rupture gap more than 4 cm had received FHL transfer.At the time of follow-up,all patients were assessed with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society(AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale and Leppilahti Achilles Tendon Repair score.ResultsThe average AOFAS score had increased from 70.2±8.5 preoperatively to 92.4±6.1postoperatvely.Leppilahti Achilles Tendon Repair score had increased from 74.8±6.2 preoperatively to 91.7±4.8 postoperatvely.MRI of Achilles tendon showed even signal without signs of tear.ConclusionV-Y advancement flap could repair a rupture gap within 4 cm,FHL transfer is suitable for rupture gap over 4 cm in reconstruction of Achilles tendon recurrent ruptures.