Dr Hugh Blackley - Tendon Achilles Operation

Tendon Achilles Operation

The objective of Repair of Rupture of Tendon Achilles Surgery is to restore normal length and tension to the tendon and allow you to do what you could do before the injury. Treatment reflects a balance between protection and early motion.

Protection is necessary to allow time for healing and to prevent re injury
Moving your foot and ankle is needed to prevent stiffness and loss of muscle tone.

What is the Treatment for Achilles Tendon Rupture?

Achilles tendon rupture is most often treated surgically to reattach the tendon to its normal position. Minor injuries to the Achilles do not require surgery, but in more serious cases of rupture, surgery is the best option. If surgery is required it should be performed soon after injury. Delay of surgery may result in a less satisfactory outcome.

Non operative management can be undertaken, generally people who live sedentary lifestyles or who may have problems with wound healing. Non surgical treatment of an Achilles tendon rupture is accomplished by casting the Achilles tendon for several months. In these patients, the number of reruptures is higher compared to those patients who have surgical repair. In patients who have surgery for an Achilles tendon rupture, less than 3% experience a rerupture of the tendon

How is surgery done for treatment of an Achilles tendon rupture?

The surgery to treat an Achilles tendon rupture involves an incision along the back of the ankle. Usually the incision is made just to the side of midline so shoes will not rub on the site of the scar. The torn ends of the Achilles tendon are identified and strong sutures are placed in both ends of the tendon. These strong sutures are then tied together to repair the tendon.

If you have any of these conditions and wish to be advised on the most appropriate treatment alternatives, please call on 09 522 2980 during office hours to schedule an appointment.