Spiked metallic washer and screw for reattachment of the Achilles tendon after repair of a distal rupture.

Abstract

The authors review Achilles tendon ruptures and treatment options for the acute and chronic rupture. A case is described involving reattachment of a chronic distal Achilles tendon rupture repair with a spiked metal washer and fully threaded cannulated cancellous screw. Spiked metal washers and their effects on soft-tissue pullout strength, and possible complications are discussed. In review of the literature, the authors have not found this type of fixation used to anchor the Achilles tendon, and feel it may be a viable option when faced with distal Achilles reattachment for the acute and chronic rupture.