Achilles Tendon can be Repaired by Minimal Invasive Technique

A new, minimally invasive technique to repair the Achilles tendon was used by Orthopaedic surgeon Adam Schiff, MD, of Loyola University Medical Center.

The technique requires minimal invasion of 1 to 1.5 inch compared to the conventional surgery, which requires a vertical incision five or six inches long.

Dr. Schiff said, "It's the new trend in foot and ankle surgery. For those who qualify, the minimally invasive approach has been very successful."

Achilles tendon rupture is a common sports related injury that typically occurs while running, jumping or in workplace or due to trauma.

A ruptured Achilles tendon can be treated non-operatively by wearing a cast for six to eight weeks if treated within 48 hours and then functional rehabilitation is required. Surgical repair reduces the risk of re-rupturing the Achilles, and enables patients to return to work or sports earlier.

The surgical technique is not appropriate for all patients, and it must be done within a week or two of the injury. As in non-surgical repairs, the patient spends four to six weeks in a cast and then undergoes functional rehabilitation.

Source: Medindia