Achilles tendon rupture

Question 1

What are risk factors for Achilles tendon rupture?

Answer 1

1) Fluoroquinolones
2) Episodic athletics
3) Steroid injections

Question 2

Where do Achilles tendons typically occur?

Answer 2

4-6cm proximal to its insertion in a hypovascular region.

Question 3

What are some advantages of non-operative treatment for Achilles tendon rupture?

Answer 3

Less wound complications,

Question 4

What are some advantages of operative treatment for Achilles tendon rupture?

Answer 4

1) Decreased re-rupture rate
2) Increased plantarflexion strength

Newer studies may dispute this when non-operative management uses early progressive weight bearing.

Question 5

What is a complication of percutaneous repair compared to traditional open in Achilles tendon ruptures?

Answer 5

Higher incidence of sural n. injury

Question 6

What is the appropriate treatment for a chronic Achilles tendon rupture?

Answer 6

Reconstruction with FHL transfer, possible VY advancement

Question 7

What is the appropriate treatment for an infected Achilles tendon repair?

Answer 7

Debridement, 6 weeks IV abx, no attempt at reconstruction.