title: Outcome evaluation after Achilles tendon ruptures. A review of the literature.
abstract: The optimal treatment and the best rehabilitation protocol after an acute Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) remain a matter of controversy in orthopaedic and sports medicine. The use of validated injury-specific outcome instruments is the only way to clarify these issues, in order to ensure that patients receive the best possible treatment. This article describes the most commonly reported outcome measures used to assess patients treated for ATR. On the basis of the available evidence, the Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) is the most appropriate outcome measure for evaluating the management of acute ATR.
authors.affiliation: Clinique du Sport-Centre Hospitalier, Luxembourg.
authors.forename: Pietro
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Spennacchio
authors.affiliation: Oderzo Hospital, Treviso, Italy.
authors.forename: Alberto
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Vascellari
authors.affiliation: Clinique du Sport-Centre Hospitalier, Luxembourg.
authors.forename: Davide
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Cucchi
authors.affiliation: Koelliker Hospital, Turin, Italy.
authors.forename: Gian Luigi
authors.initials: GL
authors.lastname: Canata
authors.affiliation: Clinique du Sport-Centre Hospitalier, Luxembourg.
authors.forename: Pietro
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Randelli
keywords: Achilles tendon; conservative treatment; outcome evaluation; surgical treatment