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Đứt gân gót chân

Updated Sep 2026
Illustration: ankle

Trang này được dịch bằng máy và chưa được bác sĩ kiểm tra. Bản tiếng Anh là bản chính thức.

Những cảm giác bạn có thể trải qua

Khi gân gót chân bị đứt, bạn thường nhận biết được ngay. Hầu hết mọi người mô tả cảm giác có tiếng “rắc” đột ngột ở phía sau mắt cá chân, giống như bị đá hoặc bị bắn trúng chân, dù thực tế chẳng có gì chạm vào. Tình trạng này thường xảy ra khi thực hiện các động tác đẩy mạnh, chẳng hạn như nhảy, chạy nước rút hoặc thực hiện động tác lunge; lúc đó cơ bắp cẳng chân hoạt động mạnh trong khi gân đang bị kéo giãn.

Gân gót chân thường bị đứt tại một vị trí cụ thể, cách chỗ gân bám vào xương gót khoảng 5–6 cm. Vùng này có lượng máu cung cấp kém hơn so với các phần còn lại của gân; điều này giúp giải thích lý do tại sao gân dễ bị đứt ở chỗ đó. Một số người cảm thấy đau hoặc cứng khớp tại vùng này trong vài ngày hoặc vài tuần trước khi gân bị đứt; tuy nhiên nhiều người lại chẳng có triệu chứng gì cho đến khi gân thực sự đứt.

Sau khi gân bị đứt, bạn có thể nhận thấy:

  • Một khoảng trống có thể sờ thấy dọc theo gân; nơi đó trở nên mềm hơn so với những vùng khác
  • Lực đẩy của bàn chân đó yếu hơn, vì vậy bạn có thể phải dùng các ngón chân để bù đắp
  • Mắt cá chân bị ảnh hưởng có vẻ thấp hơn hoặc lỏng lẻo hơn so với chân kia

Việc đi bộ, leo cầu thang hay đứng dậy từ ghế đều đòi hỏi sự phối hợp giữa cơ cẳng chân và gân gót; vì vậy những hoạt động này sẽ trở nên khó khăn hơn rõ rệt. Việc đẩy xe đẩy mua sắm, bước ra khỏi xe hơi hoặc bước xuống vỉa hè cũng có thể gây khó khăn cho bạn.

Nếu đã trôi qua một thời gian kể từ lúc bị chấn thương, các triệu chứng có thể không còn rõ ràng nữa. Mắt cá chân có thể chỉ cảm thấy yếu và không vững chắc thay vì đau nhức; đây là lý do khiến tới 25% các trường hợp bị đứt gân gót chân không được phát hiện kịp thời. Bác sĩ phẫu thuật thường có thể xác định tình trạng chấn thương dựa trên lời kể của bạn và kết quả khám lâm sàng; chỉ trong một số trường hợp mới cần chụp hình ảnh để xác nhận chẩn đoán hoặc lên kế hoạch điều trị.

Chuyện gì đang thực sự xảy ra

Gân gót chân là sợi dây dày mà bạn có thể cảm nhận được ở phía sau mắt cá chân. Đây là gân lớn và chắc khỏe nhất trong cơ thể, dài khoảng 12 đến 15 cm. Gân này nối hai cơ vùng bắp chân với xương gót; mỗi khi các cơ này co lại, gân sẽ kéo để giúp bạn đẩy người lên khỏi mặt đất.

Hãy hình dung gân này như một sợi dây được giao nhiệm vụ nặng nề. Vì phải hoạt động liên tục nên một số vùng trên gân nhận được ít máu nuôi hơn những vùng khác. Vị trí cách xương gót khoảng 5 đến 6 cm là nơi nhận ít máu nhất, và đúng nơi này thì hầu hết các trường hợp đứt gân xảy ra. Khi tuổi tác tăng lên, lượng máu nuôi gân càng giảm, sợi dây này cũng trở nên cứng hơn và kém đàn hồi. Những tổn thương nhỏ tích tụ nhanh hơn khả năng tự phục hồi của gân, cho đến khi một lực đẩy mạnh vượt quá khả năng chịu đựng của nó – đó là âm thanh “rắc” mà bạn cảm nhận được.

Khi gân bị rách, hai đầu gân tách rời nhau; sợi dây từng nối bắp chân với xương gót giờ không còn liền mạch nữa. Đó là lý do tại sao việc đẩy người lên cảm thấy yếu ớt, tại sao bạn có thể phải dùng các ngón chân để bù đắp, và tại sao mắt cá chân trở nên thấp hơn hoặc lỏng lẻo hơn so với bên kia. Cơ thể sẽ cố gắng tự nối lại hai đầu gân, nhưng trong quá trình đó hai đầu gân cần được giữ gần nhau; đây là lúc các phương pháp điều trị phát huy tác dụng.

Cần biết rằng quá trình hồi phục là một hành trình dài. Cơ bắp vùng bắp chân và mắt cá chân vẫn tiếp tục thích nghi trong nhiều năm sau chấn thương; hầu hết mọi người dù được điều trị theo cách nào thì đến hai năm sau vẫn chưa cảm nhận được cảm giác giống như chân lành. Gân cũng có xu hướng dài ra một chút so với trước, điều này ảnh hưởng đến chức năng vận động của mắt cá chân. Việc hiểu rõ những điều này ngay từ đầu sẽ giúp bạn đánh giá tiến triển hồi phục một cách thực tế, thay vì kỳ vọng quá nhiều quá sớm.

Những gì chúng tôi có thể làm

Đối với trường hợp đứt gân mới xảy ra, chẩn đoán thường đã rõ ràng qua việc khám lâm sàng; vì vậy chụp chiếu thường không cần thiết trừ khi chúng tôi muốn kiểm tra xem có chấn thương nào khác hay lên kế hoạch phẫu thuật.

Vì đây là chấn thương về cấu trúc chứ không phải tình trạng hao mòn dần theo thời gian, chúng tôi có thể đề xuất điều trị ngay lập tức thay vì bắt đầu bằng các bài tập thử nghiệm. Có hai hướng điều trị chính, và chúng tôi sẽ cùng bạn thảo luận cả hai. Một là phương pháp không phẫu thuật: hai đầu gân được giữ gần nhau trong quá trình cơ thể tự lành, thường là bằng giày nẹp cố định hoặc bó bột; bạn có thể sớm chịu trọng lượng lên chân trong chương trình điều trị này. Cách thứ hai là phẫu thuật: hai đầu gân bị đứt được khâu lại với nhau, đôi khi còn dùng thêm màng vật liệu hỗ trợ để củng cố vết khâu. Cả hai phương pháp đều nhằm mục đích tương tự là giúp gân phục hồi chức năng để bạn có thể di chuyển bình thường; đối với nhiều người, kết quả sau 12 tháng là tương đương bất kể họ chọn hướng điều trị nào.

Việc lựa chọn phương pháp điều trị là sự thỏa thuận chung giữa bác sĩ và bệnh nhân, và phụ thuộc vào nhiều yếu tố liên quan đến bạn. Tuổi tác, tình trạng sức khỏe tổng thể, mức độ hoạt động mong muốn và khả năng đưa hai đầu gân lại gần nhau nhanh chóng đều ảnh hưởng đến lời khuyên mà chúng tôi đưa ra. Phẫu thuật giúp giảm nguy cơ gân bị đứt lại so với việc điều trị không phẫu thuật, tuy nhiên điều này cần được cân nhắc dựa trên các rủi ro đi kèm với mọi ca phẫu thuật. Nếu chấn thương xảy ra đã lâu hoặc vùng da phủ trên gân có vấn đề, chúng tôi có thể đề xuất các biện pháp khác nhằm tạo điều kiện cho việc phục hồi và bảo vệ vùng da đang lành. Dù chọn phương pháp nào, một chương trình phục hồi chức năng có sự hướng dẫn của chuyên viên vật lý trị liệu cũng là phần không thể thiếu trong kế hoạch điều trị, vì cơ bắp vùng bắp chân cần được tái xây dựng sau khi gân đã lành.

Những điều có thể xảy ra

Việc hồi phục sau chấn thương đứt gân gót chân cần nhiều thời gian. Hầu hết mọi người cần ít nhất 12 tháng mới có thể phục hồi hoàn toàn chức năng, bất kể phương pháp điều trị nào được áp dụng. Các vận động viên bóng đá chuyên nghiệp thường mất 1 năm mới có thể trở lại thi đấu ở mức độ cao nhất. Cơ bắp vùng bắp chân và mắt cá chân vẫn tiếp tục thích nghi trong nhiều năm; ngay cả sau hai năm, hầu hết mọi người vẫn cảm thấy bên chân bị chấn thương không hoàn toàn tương đương với chân còn lại.

Một số thay đổi có thể còn tồn tại lâu dài. Cơ bắp vùng bắp chân có thể vẫn yếu hơn và dễ mệt mỏi hơn; tình trạng này thậm chí vẫn có thể thấy rõ sau 7 năm kể từ khi bị chấn thương. Gân đã lành cũng kém đàn hồi so với trước đây và thường dài ra một chút, điều này ảnh hưởng đến cách mắt cá chân phát lực. Cơ thể thường tự điều chỉnh mà người bệnh không nhận biết; các cơ và khớp khác dọc theo chân sẽ gánh vác một phần công việc thay thế.

Các phương pháp điều trị cũng ảnh hưởng đến cả rủi ro lẫn kết quả hồi phục. Phẫu thuật giúp giảm nguy cơ gân bị đứt lại so với việc điều trị không phẫu thuật; các ca phẫu thuật khâu gân bằng kỹ thuật xâm lấn tối thiểu (qua vết mổ nhỏ) cho thấy không có trường hợp tái đứt gân sau ít nhất 24 tháng. Tuy nhiên, phẫu thuật cũng đi kèm những rủi ro riêng, chủ yếu là các vấn đề về vết thương và nhiễm trùng vùng sau mắt cá chân. Việc điều trị không phẫu thuật giúp tránh những rủi ro này nhưng lại làm tăng khả năng gân bị đứt lại. Đối với nhiều người, kết quả sau 12 tháng là tương đương nhau dù chọn phương pháp nào, miễn là tuân thủ đúng chương trình phục hồi chức năng.

Thời điểm điều trị cũng rất quan trọng. Phẫu thuật trong vòng 48 giờ sau chấn thương giúp giảm thiểu các biến chứng so với việc chờ đến sau 72 giờ. Ngay cả khi đã hơn 2 tuần trôi qua kể từ lúc bị đứt gân, việc phẫu thuật vẫn có thể mang lại hiệu quả tốt.

Một điều cần lưu ý: tình trạng huyết khối ở chân trong thời gian mang giày nẹp cố định hoặc bó bột có thể ảnh hưởng đến chức năng mắt cá chân sau 3 năm. Vì vậy, hãy thông báo ngay cho bác sĩ phẫu thuật nếu bạn bị đau hoặc sưng vùng bắp chân mới xuất hiện.

Khi nào nên đi khám bác sĩ

Gân gót chân bị đứt cần được xử lý kịp thời; thời điểm điều trị rất quan trọng. Hãy tìm gặp chuyên gia trong vòng vài ngày sau khi bị chấn thương, vì phẫu thuật thực hiện trong vòng 48 giờ thường giúp hạn chế các biến chứng so với việc chờ đợi quá 72 giờ. Hãy đến phòng cấp cứu nếu bạn cảm nhận được tiếng “rắc” đặc trưng như đã mô tả ở trên và hoàn toàn không thể dùng bàn chân đó để đẩy người lên; hoặc nếu vùng bắp chân bị nóng, đỏ, sưng và đau – những triệu chứng có thể là dấu hiệu của nhiễm trùng nghiêm trọng cần điều trị ngay trong ngày. Cơn đau hoặc sưng vùng bắp chân mới xuất hiện trong lúc bạn đang mang giày nẹp cố định hoặc bó bột cũng cần được khám ngay, vì huyết khối có thể ảnh hưởng đến chức năng mắt cá chân sau này. Nếu nhận thấy có một khoảng trống ở gân, cảm giác yếu khi đẩy bàn chân lên, hoặc mắt cá chân bị thấp hơn so với bên kia, hãy đến gặp bác sĩ đa khoa để được giới thiệu chuyên gia – ngay cả khi chấn thương đã xảy ra vài tuần trước.


Evidence & references

This is the clinical evidence summary written for health professionals. It is technical, and it lists the research this page was built from. You do not need to read it to understand your treatment or to make a decision about it.

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

Anatomy

  • The Achilles tendon is the largest and most powerful tendon in the ankle [6].
  • The Achilles tendon is formed from the fibers of two muscle units: the gastrocnemius muscle and the soleus muscle [6].
  • The gastrocnemius muscle attaches above the knee to the posterior aspect of the medial and lateral femoral condyles [6].
  • The soleus muscle originates from the upper part of the posterior tibia, fibula, and interosseous membrane [6].
  • The gastrocnemius muscle is most effective in plantarflexion of the ankle with the knee extended [6].
  • The soleus muscle is most effective in plantarflexion of the ankle with the knee flexed [6].
  • After coursing through the calf in the superficial posterior compartment, the fibers of the Achilles tendon rotate 90 degrees toward the insertion into the calcaneal tuberosity [6].
  • At the insertion point, gastrocnemius fibers lie lateral and soleus fibers lie medial [6].
  • The Achilles tendon is innervated by the tibial nerve [9].
  • The Achilles tendon is the only musculotendinous unit that crosses two major joints (knee and ankle, as well as subtalar) in the body [9].
  • The Achilles tendon undergoes a 90° internal rotation such that the fibers from the medial gastrocnemius muscle lie posteriorly at its insertion on the calcaneus [9].
  • The Achilles tendon acts as an inverter of the heel because it runs just medial to the hindfoot axis of rotation [9].
  • The Achilles tendon is the major plantar flexor of the ankle joint [9].
  • The Achilles tendon acts as a weak knee flexor because of the contribution of the gastrocnemius muscle insertion on the posterior femoral condyles [9].
  • The Achilles tendon is surrounded by a paratenon instead of a true tendon sheath [9].
  • Lubrication of the Achilles tendon is aided by two bursae, one anterior (retrocalcaneal) and one posterior (superficial) to the tendon [9].
  • The lack of a true synovial sheath and the local anatomy result in a vascular watershed region in the tendon 2 to 6 cm above the insertion on the calcaneus [9].
  • The sural nerve runs in the midline of the gastrocnemius-soleus muscle to the musculotendinous junction, where it crosses over to the lateral side of the tendon [9].
  • The Achilles tendon is formed by a confluence of the gastrocnemius and soleus tendons in the distal calf and inserts at the calcaneal tuberosity [18].
  • The Achilles tendon is separated from the underlying bone by the retrocalcaneal bursa [18].
  • The Achilles tendon is covered medially, posteriorly, and laterally by a paratenon consisting of loose areolar tissue [18].
  • Anteriorly, the Achilles tendon is marginated by Kager fat pad [18].
  • On MRI, the normal Achilles tendon may appear as a cord of uniform caliber, measuring 4 to 7 mm in AP dimension [18].
  • The plantaris tendon is variably seen as a thin tendon slip coursing from superolateral to inferomedial along the ventral surface of the Achilles tendon [18].
  • The plantaris tendon inserts onto either the distal Achilles tendon or the calcaneal tuberosity [18].

Vascularity

  • Vascularity is supplied to the tendon through the paratenon on the deep surface of the tendon [6].
  • Vascularity is supplied to the tendon through muscular arterial branches within the gastrosoleus complex proximally [6].
  • Vascularity is supplied to the tendon through small interosseous vessels at the insertion of the tendon into the calcaneus distally [6].
  • There is a zone of relative avascularity 2 to 6 cm proximal to its insertion into the calcaneus [6].
  • The major blood supply of the tendon is through its mesotendon, with the richest supply through the anterior mesentery [16].
  • With increasing age, the anterior mesenteric supply becomes reduced [16].

Pathophysiology

  • Achilles tendon rupture has been related to a relatively hypovascular area of the tendon, shown by angiography to be 2 to 6 cm above the tendon insertion into the calcaneus [16].
  • Age-dependent changes in collagen crosslinking result in increased stiffness and loss of viscoelasticity, predisposing to injury [16].
  • Repetitive microtrauma to the hypovascular area may make it impossible for the reparative process to keep pace, and a degenerative attrition may be responsible for many Achilles tendon ruptures [16].
  • Another theory concerning the cause of Achilles tendon rupture is the failure of inhibiting mechanisms at the musculotendinous unit as a result of fatigue, with resultant eccentric overload [16].
  • The cause of Achilles tendon rupture is probably a combination of a relatively hypovascular area and repetitive microtrauma that causes an inflammatory reparative process that is unable to keep up with the stresses because of decreased vascularity [16].
  • A mechanical overload completes the rupture [16].
  • Most ruptures occur as an indirect loading mechanism during eccentric muscle contracture [2].
  • Seventy-five percent of ruptures occur between 5 and 6 cm proximal to the insertion on the calcaneal tuberosity, which correlates to a zone of relative hypovascularity [2].
  • A subgroup of patients with an acute rupture have antecedent pain at the Achilles and these tendons frequently show degenerative changes on histopathologic evaluation [2].
  • Tendinosis of the Achilles tendon is most commonly due to hypoxia, which has a predisposition for the critical zone because of its relative hypovascularity, resulting in a thickened tendon [18].
  • Myxoid degeneration is the second most frequent etiology of Achilles tendinosis, referring to the accumulation of mucoid vacuoles among tendon fibers, which may coalesce to form interstitial tears [18].
  • Less common causes of Achilles tendinosis include lipoid and ossific degeneration, which describe the accumulation of fat and ossification within the tendon [18].
  • Degenerative ossification of the Achilles tendon occurs proximal to its insertion, in contrast with enthesopathy, which occurs at the insertion [18].
  • Tears of the Achilles tendon tend to occur in the critical zone, 2 to 6 cm proximal to the calcaneus [18].
  • Tears of the myotendinous junction proximally may occur in athletes [18].
  • Insertional tears at the calcaneal tuberosity are associated with Haglund deformity [18].
  • Tendon injury is thought to be caused by a failed healing process resulting in altered tendon structure, neovascularization, and nerve ingrowth [7].
  • The risk for developing Achilles tendinopathy is likely to be multifactorial and related to an interaction of intrinsic and extrinsic factors that lead to tendon overloading [7].
  • Lower extremity impairments that lead to abnormal kinetics and/or kinematics that specifically produce an eccentric overload can result in Achilles tendon injury [7].
  • Genes associated with the collagen-production pathway may functionally affect tendon strength and stiffness, leading to an abnormal tendon response during loading [7].
  • Those with a family history of tendinopathy have five times the risk of developing Achilles tendinopathy [7].
  • The most common mechanisms of Achilles tendon rupture are pushing off with the weight-bearing forefoot while extending the knee, sudden unexpected dorsiflexion of the ankle, and violent dorsiflexion of the plantar flexed foot, as in a fall from a height [19].
  • Disruption can also occur from a direct blow to the contracted tendon or from a laceration [19].
  • Insertional tendinopathy may be characterized by one or a combination of conditions, including retrocalcaneal bursitis, pretendinous bursitis, or insertional Achilles tendinopathy with or without calcification [17].
  • A true Haglund deformity refers to a large exostosis off the posterosuperior aspect of the calcaneal tuberosity located anterior to the Achilles tendon [17].
  • The retrocalcaneal bursa lies between the tuberosity and the Achilles tendon just anterior and proximal to the Achilles’ insertional footprint [17].
  • Increased or repetitive abrasion of the tendon against the tuberosity creates inflammation of retrocalcaneal bursa (retrocalcaneal bursitis) [17].
  • With prolonged inflammation and worsening symptoms, degenerative changes occur and osteophytes form within the tendon [17].
  • A superficial bursitis (pretendinous) separates the Achilles tendon from the overlying skin [17].
  • With insertional thickening from tendinosis and calcification, the pretendinous bursa becomes inflamed by chronic irritation from a shoe heel counter [17].
  • Noninsertional tendinosis typically occurs in the watershed area of the Achilles tendon, 2 to 6 cm proximal to its insertion into the calcaneus [10].
  • Noninsertional disorders occur as three main types: peritendinitis without tendinosis, peritendinitis with tendinosis, and tendinosis [10].
  • Peritendinitis without tendinosis involves inflammation primarily of the paratenon and peritendinous structures [10].
  • Peritendinitis with tendinosis involves inflammation of the paratenon and degenerative changes within the Achilles tendon [10].
  • Tendinosis involves thickening and degenerative changes within the Achilles tendon without inflammation of the paratenon [10].
  • Acute peritendinitis causes pain and swelling, but chronic tendinosis can be a relatively asymptomatic condition characterized by a bulbous nodularity that moves with passive flexion and extension of the ankle [10].
  • Calcification within the tendon may ensue from chronic, degenerative tendinosis [10].
  • Tendinitis typically refers to an acute, reversible inflammatory process with healing potential [6].
  • Tendinosis refers to a chronic, irreversible process characterized by fibrous degeneration without reparative, inflammatory cells [6].
  • Achilles tendon disorders are classified by nodularity, location of pain, and the presence or absence of redness and warmth [9].
  • In acute paratenonitis/tendinitis, there is no nodularity, pain is located in the entire tendon with no effect from ROM, and redness and warmth are present [9].
  • In paratenonitis/tendinitis with tendinosis, there is nodularity, pain is located in the entire tendon with no effect from ROM, and redness and warmth are present [9].
  • In tendinosis, there is nodularity, pain moves with ROM, and redness and warmth are absent [9].

Clinical Presentation

Epidemiology and Mechanism

  • Achilles tendon ruptures occur most frequently in recreational male athletes in the third to fifth decades [2].
  • Most Achilles tendon ruptures occur as an indirect loading mechanism during eccentric muscle contracture [2].
  • Seventy-five percent of Achilles tendon ruptures occur between 5 and 6 cm proximal to the insertion on the calcaneal tuberosity [2].
  • The location of rupture 5 to 6 cm proximal to the insertion correlates with a zone of relative hypovascularity [2].
  • A subgroup of patients with an acute Achilles tendon rupture have antecedent pain at the Achilles [2].
  • Tendons in patients with antecedent pain frequently show degenerative changes on histopathologic evaluation [2].

History and Physical Examination

  • The diagnosis of a suspected Achilles tendon rupture is based largely on history and physical examination [2].
  • Patients typically report a sensation of being kicked or shot in the leg despite no contact occurring to the tendon [2].
  • Physical examination reveals decreased resting tension compared with the contralateral side [2].
  • Physical examination reveals plantar flexion weakness with recruitment of toe flexors to substitute for the power of the gastrocnemius-soleus complex [2].
  • Physical examination reveals a palpable gap at the site of the rupture [2].
  • Thompson testing is positive in Achilles tendon rupture, indicating the absence of passive ankle plantar flexion upon calf squeeze with the patient positioned prone [2].
  • Thompson testing is highly sensitive (96%) for a complete acute Achilles rupture [2].
  • Thompson testing is highly specific (93%) for a complete acute Achilles rupture [2].

Classification and Imaging

  • Achilles tendon ruptures are divided into acute versus chronic, with the distinction most commonly described as 4 to 6 weeks [2].
  • Chronic Achilles tendon ruptures are often the result of missed initial diagnosis [2].
  • Missed initial diagnosis of Achilles tendon rupture can occur in up to 25% of cases [2].
  • Diagnostic imaging is not needed in most cases of Achilles tendon rupture [2].
  • Diagnostic imaging can be useful to rule out alternative or additional injuries, confirm the diagnosis, or better define the injury for preoperative planning purposes [2].
  • MRI and ultrasonography can be used to confirm an Achilles tendon rupture in the case of ambiguous physical examination findings [2].
  • MRI and ultrasonography are not routinely necessary for the diagnosis of Achilles tendon rupture [2].
  • MRI and ultrasonography may be helpful to localize the level of an acute rupture [2].
  • MRI and ultrasonography may be helpful to identify any underlying tendinosis at the site of the rupture [2].
  • MRI and ultrasonography may be helpful to quantify gapping of tendon ends [2].

Investigations

Clinical Examination

  • The diagnosis of a suspected Achilles rupture is based largely on history and physical examination [2].
  • Physical examination reveals a decreased resting tension compared with the contralateral side [2].
  • Thompson testing is positive indicating the absence of passive ankle plantar flexion upon calf squeeze with the patient positioned prone [2].
  • Thompson testing is highly sensitive (96%) and specific (93%) for a complete acute Achilles rupture [2].
  • The physical examination should include two or more of the following tests to establish the diagnosis of acute Achilles tendon rupture: Clinical Thompson test (Simmonds squeeze test), decreased ankle plantar flexion strength, presence of a palpable gap (defect, loss of contour), or increased passive ankle dorsiflexion with gentle manipulation [13].

Imaging

  • Diagnostic imaging is not needed in most cases, but can be useful to rule out alternative or additional injuries, confirm the diagnosis, or better define the injury for preoperative planning purposes, especially in cases of delayed or unclear diagnosis [2].
  • MRI and ultrasonography can both be used to confirm an Achilles tendon rupture in the case of ambiguous physical examination findings but are not routinely necessary [2].
  • MRI and ultrasonography may be helpful to localize the level of an acute rupture, identify any underlying tendinosis at the site of the rupture, and quantify gapping of tendon ends, which may influence treatment [2].
  • The use of routine magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, and radiography to confirm the diagnosis of acute Achilles tendon rupture has an inconclusive strength of recommendation [13].

Treatment

Noninsertional Achilles Tendinopathy

  • Acute peritendinitis causes pain and swelling [10].
  • Chronic tendinosis can be a relatively asymptomatic condition characterized by a bulbous nodularity that moves with passive flexion and extension of the ankle [10].
  • MRI is helpful in evaluating the extent of degenerative changes especially in preoperative planning and counseling [10].
  • Surgical management for noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy is indicated for patients in whom conservative treatment of at least 6 months has failed [10].
  • Surgical treatments for noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy include ventral paratenon stripping, open tendon debridement, and tendon reconstruction procedures with tendon transfers [10].
  • In extensive disease, reconstruction procedures have excellent results and remain the gold standard but are accompanied by significant recovery times and potential complications [10].
  • Gastrocnemius recession is becoming more popular as an alternative surgical treatment for noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy with less morbidity and good results [10].
  • Endoscopic debridement of ventral paratenon adhesions has been reported to yield good results and shortened recovery [10].
  • Surgically treated patients with extensive disease (>50% of the tendon volume) may be candidates for tendon transfer augmentation [10].
  • Most literature supports the use of flexor hallucis longus tendon transfers for noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy reconstruction [10].
  • Similar outcomes have been reported with flexor digitorum longus transfers for noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy reconstruction [10].
  • The flexor hallucis longus can be harvested through a single- or double-incision technique [10].
  • Martin et al. reported decreased pain in 42 of 44 patients treated with complete excision of the diseased Achilles tendon and transfer of the FHL tendon [10].
  • Richardson et al. demonstrated decreased hallux pressure and FHL weakness after a single incision FHL transfer, but minimal patient morbidity was noted [10].
  • No differences were noted in the 1st and 2nd metatarsal head pressures when compared with the unaffected foot after single incision FHL transfer [10].
  • Schon et al. prospectively reported the results of surgical treatment in 46 patients with insertional or midsustance tendinosis [10].
  • After failed conservative treatment, patients were treated with Achilles debridement and FHL transfer [10].
  • At 24 months after surgery, significant improvement was recorded in visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) physical scores, Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale, and performance of a single-leg heel rise [10].

Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture

  • Bhandari et al. conducted a systematic overview and metaanalysis of the treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures [3].
  • Khan et al. conducted a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials for the treatment of Achilles tendon ruptures [3].
  • Grassi et al. reported a meta-analysis showing reduced complications with similar outcomes after minimally invasive surgery compared to open repair for acute Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Deng et al. conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing surgical treatment versus conservative management for acute Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Chiodo et al. published the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons clinical practice guideline on treatment of Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Ahmad et al. investigated the effect of obesity on surgical treatment of Achilles tendon ruptures [4].
  • Hillam et al. investigated the effect of obesity on Achilles rupture repair [4].
  • Barfod et al. conducted a blinded, randomized controlled trial of nonoperative dynamic treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Barfod et al. conducted an assessor-blinded, randomised controlled trial on the efficacy of early controlled motion of the ankle compared with immobilization in non-operative treatment of patients with an acute Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • El-Akkawi et al. conducted a meta-analysis on the effect of early versus late weight-bearing in conservatively treated acute Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Aufwerber et al. reported that early mobilization does not reduce the risk of deep venous thrombosis after Achilles tendon rupture in a randomized controlled trial [4].
  • Metz et al. conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing minimally invasive surgery versus nonoperative treatment with immediate full weightbearing for acute Achilles tendon rupture [3].
  • Gigante et al. conducted a randomized prospective study comparing open versus percutaneous repair in the treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture [3].
  • Lim et al. conducted a prospective randomized controlled study comparing percutaneous vs. open repair of the ruptured Achilles tendon [3].
  • Crennik et al. conducted a comparative study of percutaneous versus open repair of the ruptured Achilles tendon [3].
  • Bradley et al. conducted a comparative study of percutaneous and open surgical repairs of Achilles tendon ruptures [3].
  • Kangas et al. conducted a prospective, randomized clinical study comparing early functional treatment versus early immobilization in tension of the musculoskeletal unit after Achilles tendon repair [3].
  • Calder et al. conducted a prospective study of early, active rehabilitation following mini-open repair of Achilles tendon rupture [3].
  • Lansdaal et al. reported the results of 163 Achilles tendon ruptures treated by a minimally invasive surgical technique and functional after treatment [3].
  • Jung et al. reported the outcome of Achilles tendon ruptures treated by a limited open technique [3].
  • Assal et al. reported findings of a prospective multicenter study on limited open repair of Achilles tendon ruptures [3].
  • Clanton et al. conducted a biomechanical comparison of an open repair and 3 minimally invasive percutaneous Achilles tendon repair techniques during a simulated, progressive rehabilitation protocol [4].
  • Grieco et al. conducted a biomechanical evaluation of varying the number of loops in a physiological model of Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Frantz et al. reported patient-reported outcomes of Achilles tendon repair using the modified gift-box technique with nonabsorbable suture loop in a consecutive case series [4].
  • Chegini Kord et al. described minimally invasive repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture using gift box technique [4].
  • Bisaccia et al. evaluated the validity and reliability of mini-invasive surgery assisted by ultrasound in Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Giannetti et al. described intraoperative ultrasound assistance for percutaneous repair of the acute Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Fortis et al. described repair of Achilles tendon rupture under endoscopic control [3].
  • Ceccarelli et al. described percutaneous and minimally invasive techniques of Achilles tendon repair [3].
  • Gorschewsky et al. described percutaneous repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture [3].
  • Ma et al. described percutaneous repair of acute closed ruptured Achilles tendon [3].
  • Davies et al. described minimal incision techniques for acute Achilles repair [3].
  • Lindholm et al. described a new method of operation in subcutaneous rupture of the Achilles tendon [3].
  • Kellam et al. reviewed the operative treatment of Achilles tendon rupture [3].
  • Inglis et al. described surgical repair of ruptures of the tendo Achilles [3].
  • Beskin et al. described surgical repair of Achilles tendon ruptures [3].
  • Levy et al. described a method of repair for Achilles tendon ruptures without cast immobilization [3].
  • Mandelbaum et al. described a new method of repair, early range of motion, and functional rehabilitation for Achilles tendon ruptures [3].
  • Krackow et al. described a new stitch for ligament-tendon fixation [3].
  • Lynn et al. described repair of the torn Achilles tendon using the plantaris tendon as a reinforcing membrane [3].
  • Lieberman et al. described repair of Achilles tendon ruptures with Dacron vascular graft [3].
  • Bosworth et al. described repair of defects in the tendo Achilles [3].
  • Bugg et al. described repair of neglected rupture or laceration of the Achilles tendon [3].
  • Abraham et al. described treatment by V-Y tendinous flap for neglected rupture of the Achilles tendon [3].
  • Elias et al. described reconstruction for missed or neglected Achilles tendon rupture with V-Y lengthening and flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer through one incision [3].
  • Maffulli et al. described management of chronic ruptures of the Achilles tendon [3].
  • Leslie et al. described neglected ruptures of the Achilles tendon [3].
  • Lin et al. described tendon transfers for Achilles reconstruction [3].
  • Alhaug et al. conducted a retrospective study on flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer for chronic Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Bullock et al. reported that repair of chronic Achilles ruptures has a high incidence of venous thromboembolism [4].
  • Cretnik et al. reported the incidence and outcome of operatively treated Achilles tendon rupture in the elderly [4].
  • Amendola et al. reported outcomes of open surgery versus nonoperative management of acute Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Jacobs et al. compared conservative and operative treatment of Achilles tendon rupture [3].
  • Inglis et al. conducted an objective assessment of surgical and non-surgical management of ruptures of the tendo Achilles [3].
  • Lea et al. described non-surgical treatment of tendo Achilles rupture [3].
  • Kocher et al. conducted an expected-value decision analysis of operative versus nonoperative management of acute Achilles tendon rupture [3].
  • Holm et al. conducted a systematic review on Achilles tendon rupture treatment and complications [4].
  • Brumann et al. developed an evidence-based treatment protocol for accelerated rehabilitation following Achilles tendon repair after acute rupture [4].
  • Glazebrook et al. described functional rehabilitation for nonsurgical treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Grassi et al. reported that 82 percent of male professional football (soccer) players return to play at the previous level two seasons after Achilles tendon rupture treated with surgical repair [4].
  • Kaniki et al. conducted a retrospective comparative study with historical control to determine the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma as part of nonoperative treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture [4].
  • Keene et al. conducted the PATH-2 randomized trial on platelet rich plasma injection for acute Achilles rupture [4].
  • Lyras et al. investigated the influence of platelet-rich plasma on angiogenesis during the early phase of tendon healing [3].
  • Chen et al. investigated how tendon derived stem cells promote platelet-rich plasma healing in collagenase-induced rage Achilles tendinopathy [4].
  • Fildaro et al. described a nonoperative biological treatment approach for partial Achilles tendon lesion [4].
  • Claessen et al. identified predictors of primary Achilles tendon ruptures [4].

Open Repair Technique (Lindholm)

  • The patient is positioned prone for the Lindholm open repair of Achilles tendon rupture [11].
  • A posterior curvilinear incision is made extending from the midcalf to the calcaneus [11].
  • The deep fascia is incised in the midline to expose the tendon rupture [11].
  • The ragged ends of the tendon are debrided and apposed with a box type of mattress suture of heavy nonabsorbable suture material or wire [11].
  • Fine interrupted sutures are also used to appose the tendon ends [11].
  • Two flaps are fashioned from the proximal tendon and gastrocnemius aponeurosis, each approximately 1 cm wide and 7 to 8 cm long [11].
  • The flaps are left attached at a point 3 cm proximal to the site of rupture [11].
  • Each flap is twisted 180 degrees on itself so that its smooth external surface lies next to the subcutaneous tissue as it is turned distally over the rupture [11].
  • Each flap is sutured to the distal stump of the tendon and to one another so that they cover the site of rupture completely [11].
  • The wound is closed with care taken to approximate the tendon sheath over the site of repair [11].
  • In the Lynn technique, the tendon sheath is opened in the midline [11].
  • The foot is held in 20 degrees of plantar flexion without excising the irregular edges [11].
  • The ends of the Achilles tendon are sewn together with 2-0 absorbable sutures [11].
  • If the plantaris tendon is intact, its insertion on the calcaneus is divided [11].
  • The plantaris tendon is fanned out to form a membrane using forceps beginning distally [11].
  • The plantaris membrane is placed over the repair of the Achilles tendon and sutured in place with interrupted sutures [11].
  • When possible, the Achilles tendon is covered for 2.5 cm both proximal and distal to the repair [11].
  • If the plantaris tendon is also ruptured, it is dissected free from the Achilles tendon for several centimeters and divided proximally using a tendon stripper [11].
  • The ruptured plantaris tendon is pulled distally into the incision, fanned out as a free graft, and used to cover the repair [11].
  • The sheath of the Achilles tendon is closed as far distally as possible without tension [11].
  • Postoperative care for the Lindholm and Lynn techniques is the same as that used after treatment of acute rupture of the Achilles tendon [11].

References

[2] Orthopaedic Knowledge Update 13 Ebook Without Multimedia. Foot and Ankle Reconstruction > Achilles Tendon Rupture.

[3] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. ACHILLES TENDON AUGMENTATION OF SUPERIOR PERONEAL RETINACULUM REPAIR > RUPTURE OF MUSCLES AND TENDONS > RUPTURE OF ACHILLES TENDON.

[4] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. ACHILLES TENDON AUGMENTATION OF SUPERIOR PERONEAL RETINACULUM REPAIR > RUPTURE OF ACHILLES TENDON.

[6] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. MULTIPLE Z-PLASTY RELEASE OF A CONGENITAL RING > DISORDERS OF THE ACHILLES TENDON.

[7] Orthopaedic Knowledge Update Sports Medicine 6. Foot and Ankle Rehabilitation > Achilles Tendinopathy.

[9] Aaos Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review 3. Tendon Disorders of the Foot and Ankle > I. Achilles Tendon Disorders.

[10] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. MULTIPLE Z-PLASTY RELEASE OF A CONGENITAL RING > NONINSERTIONAL ACHILLES TENDINOPATHY.

[11] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. ULNAR COLLATERAL LIGAMENT REPAIR WITH AN INTERNAL BRACE > OPEN REPAIR OF ACHILLES TENDON RUPTURE—LINDHOLM.

[13] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. ULNAR COLLATERAL LIGAMENT REPAIR WITH AN INTERNAL BRACE > AAOS Recommendations: Achilles Tendon Ruptures.

[16] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. ULNAR COLLATERAL LIGAMENT REPAIR WITH AN INTERNAL BRACE > RUPTURE OF ACHILLES TENDON > ANATOMY AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGY.

[17] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. MULTIPLE Z-PLASTY RELEASE OF A CONGENITAL RING > INSERTIONAL ACHILLES TENDINOPATHY.

[18] Orthopaedic Knowledge Update Sports Medicine 6. Imaging of the Foot and Ankle > Achilles Tendon.

[19] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. ULNAR COLLATERAL LIGAMENT REPAIR WITH AN INTERNAL BRACE > RUPTURE OF ACHILLES TENDON.

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a. This Public License applies for the term of the Copyright and Similar Rights licensed here. However, if You fail to comply with this Public License, then Your rights under this Public License terminate automatically.

b. Where Your right to use the Licensed Material has terminated under Section 6(a), it reinstates:

1. automatically as of the date the violation is cured, provided it is cured within 30 days of Your discovery of the violation; or

2. upon express reinstatement by the Licensor.

For the avoidance of doubt, this Section 6(b) does not affect any right the Licensor may have to seek remedies for Your violations of this Public License.

c. For the avoidance of doubt, the Licensor may also offer the Licensed Material under separate terms or conditions or stop distributing the Licensed Material at any time; however, doing so will not terminate this Public License.

d. Sections 1, 5, 6, 7, and 8 survive termination of this Public License.

Section 7 -- Other Terms and Conditions.

a. The Licensor shall not be bound by any additional or different terms or conditions communicated by You unless expressly agreed.

b. Any arrangements, understandings, or agreements regarding the Licensed Material not stated herein are separate from and independent of the terms and conditions of this Public License.

Section 8 -- Interpretation.

a. For the avoidance of doubt, this Public License does not, and shall not be interpreted to, reduce, limit, restrict, or impose conditions on any use of the Licensed Material that could lawfully be made without permission under this Public License.

b. To the extent possible, if any provision of this Public License is deemed unenforceable, it shall be automatically reformed to the minimum extent necessary to make it enforceable. If the provision cannot be reformed, it shall be severed from this Public License without affecting the enforceability of the remaining terms and conditions.

c. No term or condition of this Public License will be waived and no failure to comply consented to unless expressly agreed to by the Licensor.

d. Nothing in this Public License constitutes or may be interpreted as a limitation upon, or waiver of, any privileges and immunities that apply to the Licensor or You, including from the legal processes of any jurisdiction or authority.


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