Depending on the location, severity and length of time since the injury, treatment options will vary.
Acute Achilles Tendon Tear Surgery
Acute tears of the Achilles tendon can be managed with a cast or cast boot together with rehabilitation. However, a repair may restore function quicker. This procedure assures more power in the healed tendon, reducing the chances of a re-rupture or re-tear.
Previously, the main concern with a repair was wound complications. This was because a relatively long incision would be required for repair.
Dr Tan has been using a minimally invasive technique for repairs for many years now. This has provided reliable repair without wound complications.
With small incisions for the repair, this allows faster rehabilitation without the use of a cast. Swift rehabilitation after Achilles tear surgery results in earlier weight bearing on the foot, and regaining independence more rapidly.
Chronic Achilles Tendon Tear Surgery
Chronic or missed Achilles tears are not that infrequent. In many cases, the original tear may have not been diagnosed immediately due to a variety of reasons.
Many patients end up with a tendon that is completely torn, featuring a relatively large gap between its ends. This would traditionally require a fairly complicated reconstruction involving a significant wound/incision. In a procedure such as this, local tendon flaps or a nearby tendon transfer e.g. flexor hallucis longus [FHL] transfer are used to bridge the gap.
In recent years, Dr Tan has been using an arthroscopic technique to perform a minimally invasive tendon reconstruction of chronic tears. This innovative form of Achilles tear surgery has the advantage of minimal wound complications and reduced likelihood of postoperative difficulties.
To learn more about this condition and our capabilities to assist, speak to our practice at +65 6734 8168 or send an email to email@footandankledoctor.com.sg
