Minimal incision techniques for acute Achilles repair.

Abstract

This article reviews minimal incision techniques in the treatment of acutely ruptured Achilles tendon and the results that can be anticipated from these methods. However, lack of robust prospective randomized studies on the treatment of Achilles tendon rupture makes it impossible to draw conclusions on optimal treatment strategies. The bulk of the evidence available suggests that surgical repair reduces rerupture rates compared with non-operatively treated tendon ruptures. Surgery does have potential complications, but as outlined in the article, using a mini-open or percutaneous technique of repair might result in highly satisfactory outcomes with acceptably low complication rates.