Treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures with Achillon device: clinical outcomes and kinetic gait analysis.
BACKGROUND
We reviewed the outcomes of the Achillon minimally invasive suture system and an early semi-functional rehabilitation program for the treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures.


METHODS
From December 2006 to April 2008, 18 consecutive patients with acute Achilles tendon ruptures were retrospectively reviewed with an average follow-up of 22 months. Clinical data were assessed with the patient satisfaction and the AOFAS hindfoot score. Biomechanical gait parameters were obtained using the NedAMH/IBV dynamometric platform.


RESULTS
At last follow-up the AOFAS score was 98 (range, 89-100) and correlated well with kinetic gait analysis. All patients regained normal range of motion and were able to resume their previous activities after six months, with a high rate of satisfaction. Three patients had scar adhesions. There were no cases of recurrent rupture or nerve injury.


CONCLUSIONS
The Achillon device allows semi-functional rehabilitation and provides satisfactory results with a low rate of complication.
Department of Orthopaedics, La Fe Hospital, University of Valencia, Avdª Campanar 21, 46009 Valencia, Spain. nmg17545@yahoo.es
Ignacio Martínez
IM
Garrido
Juan Cervera
JC
Deval
Marta Navarro
MN
Bosch
Daniel Herrero
DH
Mediavilla
Vicente Pellicer
VP
Garcia
María Sánchez
MS
González
D000125:Achilles Tendon / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery*; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005684:Gait; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012421:Rupture / Q000601:surgery; D013165:Splints