Affiliation
1 Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, “Babes-Bolyai” University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
2 Histology Department, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
3 Kinetic Sport & Medicine Clinic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
4 Department of Physiology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Abstract
Background. The strongest, largest and thickest tendon in the human body is the Achilles tendon; it is also the most commonly ruptured tendon. This tendon is essential for maintaining posture during walking and running.
Aims. Acute ruptures of the Achilles tendon must be differentiated from ruptures that occur as a result of chronic degeneration of the tendon. An acute rupture of a before healthy tendon can be successfully treated either conservatively or surgically. Rehabilitation is an essential component of treatment.
Methods. We report a rare case of acute traumatic partial rupture of the Achilles tendon treated surgically in a 32-year-old male who underwent rehabilitation and its outcome. The patient was without significant personal pathological history, and without previous joint or tendon pathologies.
Results. The patient presented with sudden mechanical pain and swelling in the posterior region of his right calf. He was immediately evaluated and found to have a lacerated wound with visible torn ends of the right Achilles tendon. A real-time ultrasound revealed a partial rupture of the right Achilles tendon. A double Krackow suture was performed with augmentation of the distal repair with anchorage in the calcaneus. After strict postoperative rehabilitation, the patient was allowed to bear weight starting at 12 weeks. At 6-month follow-up, tendon continuity was intact both clinically and radiologically, and the patient was able to ambulate with full weight bearing with comparable ankle range of motion bilaterally.
Conclusions. Traumatic Achilles tendon rupture is a relatively common pathology in young men. Awareness of possible complications and addressing them with timely intervention followed by well-balanced rehabilitation can save the tendon and yield excellent results.
Keywords: Achilles tendon rupture, rehabilitation, surgery.
Postoperative rehabilitation of the acute rupture of the Achilles tendon: a case report
