[Achilles tendon rupture: early dynamic mobilisation after surgery].

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: It should be investigated whether the results of operative treatment of Achilles tendon ruptures can be improved by the use of a lower leg splint.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: We report on 58 patients with a subcutaneous Achilles tendon rupture, who underwent a standardised suture repair (Bunnell suture) followed by an early functional dynamic treatment with a newly developed lower leg splint.

RESULTS: 45 patients, 3 women and 42 men, were examined on average 30 months after the operation. The cause of the rupture was predominantly a sporting activity. There were no postoperative complications, no rerupture and no infection. The ultrasonic investigation showed a very good gliding ability of the operated tendons, in the compartment I with 38 and in the compartment II with 7 of the 45 patients. According to the Trillat classification 27 patients scored excellent and 18 patients good.

CONCLUSION: Similar to the treatment concept after surgical repair of hand tendons an early better result can be obtained by a functional dynamic treatment regimen also in operated Achilles tendon ruptures.