Repair of chronic Achilles tendon rupture with flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer.
A new technique is described for reconstruction of chronic Achilles tendon rupture using the flexor hallucis longus tendon. Follow-up on seven patients (mean age 52 years) is provided (average follow-up 17 months, range 3-30 months). All patients were re-examined to assess postoperative range of motion, scar healing, and sensation. Motor strength was assessed by Cybex testing. Subjective satisfaction was examined by completion of a questionnaire. There were no postoperative infections, skin losses, or re-ruptures. Each patient developed a small but functionally insignificant loss in range of motion in the involved ankle and great toe. All patients had a satisfactory return of function. One patient required a molded foot-ankle orthosis for extended ambulation but was able to play golf.
Wapner
K L
KL
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107.
Pavlock
G S
GS
Hecht
P J
PJ
Naselli
F
F
Walther
R
R
D000125:Achilles Tendon / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery*; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012421:Rupture / Q000601:surgery; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D013709:Tendon Transfer / Q000379:methods*