title: [Zwipp Percutaneous Suture of the Achilles Tendon with the Dresden Instruments].
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Rupture of the Achilles tendon is the most common rupture of a tendon in man. Acute rupture of the Achilles tendon may be treated in a variety of manners, including conservative treatment, open suture and percutaneous suture. Surgical treatment of active patients is recommended, as the risk of re-rupture is greater after non-surgical treatment. The aim of surgery is adequate treatment of Achilles tendon rupture with a low rate of complications, high comfort for patients and fast social and occupational rehabilitation.
  
  
  METHODS
  The indication for surgical treatment of Achilles tendon rupture predominantly includes ruptures in active patients, with the goal of optimal functional rehabilitation. Furthermore, the percutaneous technique protects soft tissue, with a lower rate of wound healing disorders and infection than with open surgical treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  In our clinic we perform the percutaneous suturing technique with the Dresden instruments. The surgical technique and functional aftercare are shown in a video clip. Between 2007 and 2013, we treated 212 patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture by surgery with the Dresden instruments. There were 7 re-ruptures (3.3 %) and one case of infection within one year of surgery.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Percutaneous Achilles tendon suture technique with the Dresden instruments is a safe operation that protects soft tissue. Patient satisfaction is high and the rate of complications is low. This allows rapid social and occupational rehabilitation.
authors.affiliation: Klinik für Unfall-, Hand- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Klinikverbund Südwest, Kliniken Sindelfingen.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Chmielnicki
authors.affiliation: Klinik für Unfall-, Hand- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Klinikverbund Südwest, Kliniken Sindelfingen.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Prokop
mesh_terms: D000125:Achilles Tendon / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D053441:Suture Anchors; D013536:Suture Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation*; D013537:Sutures; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome