Prospective randomized comparison of functional bracing versus rigid immobilization with early weightbearing after modified percutaneous achilles tendon repair under local anesthesia
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Abstract
Objective
The optimal treatment and rehabilitation strategy for acute Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) remain a debate. This study aimed to compare the results of the two postoperative regimens after treatment for ATR with modified closed percutaneous repair under local anesthesia.
Methods
In a 4-year study, 72 consecutive patients with acute complete ATR were randomized after percutaneous repair into a functional group (FG), using a modified brace (28 males, three females; mean age 41.9 [29–71] years) and an immobilization group (IG), wearing a rigid plaster (28 males, two females; mean age 42.2 [29–57] years), for a period of 6 weeks. Except for immobilization, they followed the same weight-bearing and rehabilitation protocols. The follow-up period was 3 years. The complication rate, active and passive ankle range of motion, standing heel-rise test, clinical outcome using the American Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot-ankle score, return to the previous activity level, and subjective assessment were assessed.
Results
There was one rerupture in the IG and two transient sural nerve disturbances in the FG and one in the IG, and one suture extrusion in the IG, with no other complications. The average AOFAS scores were 96.9 ± 4.3 and 96.0 ± 4.9 in the FG and IG, respectively. Patients in the FG reached a final range of motion and muscular strength sooner without limping and were more satisfied with the treatment. No significant differences could be detected between groups according to the results in any of the assessed parameters.
Conclusion
Early dynamic functional bracing in patients with ATR treated with modified closed percutaneous repair under local anesthesia resulted in earlier functional recovery with similar final results in terms of complications and functional outcomes, such as rigid postoperative immobilization with standardized rehabilitation and weight-bearing protocol.
期刊介绍：
The Foot is an international peer-reviewed journal covering all aspects of scientific approaches and medical and surgical treatment of the foot. The Foot aims to provide a multidisciplinary platform for all specialties involved in treating disorders of the foot. At present it is the only journal which provides this inter-disciplinary opportunity. Primary research papers cover a wide range of disorders of the foot and their treatment, including diabetes, vascular disease, neurological, dermatological and infectious conditions, sports injuries, biomechanics, bioengineering, orthoses and prostheses.
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