Salvage Reconstruction of a 12-cm Tendon Defect Following Chronic Achilles Rerupture—15-Year Follow-Up

Abstract

Case: A 39-year-old man with a chronic Achilles rupture status post (1) failed primary repair and (2) secondary xenograft repair with graft rejection, resulting in a 12-cm Achilles tendon defect, which was reconstructed utilizing an Achilles bone block allograft and flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon transfer. At 15-year follow-up, the patient reported good functionality and satisfaction with the repair, with positive patient-reported outcome measures. Physical examination revealed excellent strength and range of motion. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the integrity and incorporation of the Achilles/FHL graft composite. Conclusion: This case study provides valuable insight into successful long-term management of complex chronic Achilles ruptures with large defects.