Based on the data, it would appear that the regular use of bone-patellar tendon-bone allografts, particularly for physically active patients, is unsuitable.
Various studies have shown that the operative treatment of a freshly ruptured Achilles tendon is generally considered to be more appropriate than a nonoperative regimen. However, complications in open reconstructions are reported to occur in 11-29%. The method used in this study reduced the risk of complications arising from operation, but simultaneously allowed early postoperative mobilization and functional treatment. It was a percutaneous repair of the Achilles tendon, using two Lengemann extension wires for coadaptation of the ruptured tendon. To fix the rupture site, the authors used a fibrin sealant. The spikes of the wire were hooked in at the fascia of the soleus muscle. Via a big, curved needle, the wire was placed in the distal stumps of the ruptured tendon and guided out laterally and medially above the calcaneus. After blocking the wires distally, the fibrin sealant was applied at the rupture site. The current report describes this method of treatment in 66 patients. The postoperative observation period was 1 year. Sixty-four patients were male and two were female. Their average age was 42 years. The Achilles tendon ruptures occurred during sporting activities and were treated by operation within 22 hours on average. The outcome was very good in 98%. One patient (2%) suffered a rerupture due to trauma. There were no other complications.
The advantages of the method arising from the results lie in both the simple operation approach without nerve lesions or wound infections, and also in the indirect, intramedullary splinting of the fracture without damage to the surrounding soft parts, while iatrogenic necroses of the humeral head can be avoided.
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