Surgical Versus Conservative Intervention for Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture: A PRISMA-Compliant Systematic Review of Overlapping Meta-Analyses

[Surgical or non-operative treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture : What does the current literature say?]

BACKGROUND

The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in humans and is frequently injured, especially in the physically active young to middle-aged population. An increasing frequency of Achilles tendon ruptures (ATR) has been reported in several studies. However, there is no international consensus regarding possible non-operative (N-OP) or operative (surgical) treatment (OP).

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this article is to semi-quantitatively compare both treatment options for ATR by analyzing the results reported in the literature.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

For this purpose, relevant categories were identified, and the literature was then evaluated in a PubMed analysis. Ten meta-analyses and two cost analyses were included. The data was extracted according to the categories and evaluated comparatively.

RESULTS

OP and N‑OP for acute ATR can lead to equally good restitution of clinical function if early functional rehabilitation is applied. The lower re-rupture rate is an advantage of OP, whereas the lower general complications speak in favor of N‑OP. The minimally invasive or percutaneous surgical technique (M-OP) appears to be advantageous over the open surgical technique (O-OP), although studies show an increased rate of lesions of the sural nerve.

CONCLUSION

There is no consensus regarding the superiority of OP or N‑OP for acute ATR, as several studies conducted since the introduction of early mobilization protocols have shown similar results for these two interventions. Results and complications of M‑OP and O‑OP are also comparable. Considering the available data on the various surgical procedures, the authors prefer the M‑OP technique with adequate sural nerve protection for repair of acute ATR, combined with an early mobilization protocol.

Ultrasound assessment of acute Achilles tendon rupture and measurement of the tendon gap

Achilles tendon rupture is a common sports-related injury which can carry significant morbidity to patients. Ultrasound remains the workhorse of imaging as it can confirm and localise the extent of Achilles tendon injury. The sonographic anatomy, both normal and ruptured sonographic appearances, as well as sonographic technique must be appreciated to accurately image and report findings, critical to patient management. Particular attention should be applied to the measurement of the diastasis between acutely ruptured tendon ends as this information can assist with informing the decision of conservative vs. operative management. Further work is necessary to standardise the measurement technique including correlating the degree of plantarflexion of the foot with the sonographic tendon gap measures.

A framework to characterise the reproducibility of meta-analysis results with its application to direct oral anticoagulants in the acute treatment of venous thromboembolism

The number of meta-analyses of aggregate data has dramatically increased due to the facility of obtaining data from publications and the development of free, easy-to-use, and specialised statistical software. Even when meta-analyses include the same studies, their results may vary owing to different methodological choices. Assessment of the replication of meta-analysis provides an example of the variation of effect 'naturally' observed between multiple research projects. Reproducibility of results has mostly been reported using graphical descriptive representations. A quantitative analysis of such results would enable (i) breakdown of the total observed variability with quantification of the variability generated by the replication process and (ii) identification of which variables account for this variability, such as methodological quality or the statistical analysis procedures used. These variables might explain systematic mean differences between results and dispersion of the results. To quantitatively characterise the reproducibility of meta-analysis results, a bivariate linear mixed-effects model was developed to simulate both mean results and their corresponding uncertainty. Results were assigned to several replication groups, those assessing the same studies, outcomes, treatment indication and comparisons classified in the same replication group. A nested random effect structure was used to break down the total variability within each replication group and between these groups to enable calculation of an intragroup correlation coefficient and quantification of reproducibility. Determinants of variability were investigated by modelling both mean and variance parameters using covariates. The proposed model was applied to the example of meta-analyses evaluating direct oral anticoagulants in the acute treatment of venous thromboembolism.

Replication of systematic reviews: is it to the benefit or detriment of methodological quality?

OBJECTIVES

To perform an overview of the overlap of systematic reviews (SRs) assessing direct oral anticoagulants and characterize these reviews in terms of bias and methodological quality (PROSPERO: CRD42022316273).

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

A PubMed-indexed search was performed from inception to January 31, 2022 to identify SRs evaluating direct oral anticoagulants in patients treated for an acute venous thromboembolism. The risk of bias of these SRs was assessed according to the Risk Of Bias In Systematic reviews tool. Redundancy was defined as overlap in terms of the type of population considered, the interventions compared, and the studies included.

RESULTS

A total of 144 SRs were evaluated, of which 26 (18.1%) were classified as original, 87 (60.4%) as conceptual replications, and 31 (21.5%) as excessive replications. The risk of bias was high in 19 (73.1%) of the original SRs, 65 (74.7%) of the conceptual replications, and 21 (67.7%) of the excessive replications. Compared to the original SRs, the overall methodological quality was not improved in either conceptual or excessive replications.

CONCLUSION

A large number of SRs was classified as replications; a fifth constituted excessive replications. The replications showed no improvement in overall methodological quality compared to the original SRs.

Return to sport after surgical repair of the Achilles tendon

Achilles tendon rupture is among the most common sports injuries. In patients with high functional demands, surgical repair is preferred to facilitate early return to sporting function. This article reviews the literature and provides evidence-based guidance for return to sport after operative management of Achilles tendon rupture. A search was performed using PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library for all studies reporting on return to sport after operative management of Achilles tendon rupture. The review included 24 studies reporting on 947 patients, and found that 65-100% of patients were able to return to sport between 3 and 13.4 months post-injury, with incidence of rupture recurrence 0-5.74%. These findings will help patients and healthcare professionals plan a recovery timeline, discuss athletic functionality post-recovery, and understand complications of repair and risk of tendon re-rupture.

Factors That Affect Return to Sports After an Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Qualitative Content Analysis

Background

Achilles tendon rupture is common among physically active individuals, yet a high percentage fail to return to their former activity after the injury. Quantifiable factors such as type of treatment, hours of rehabilitation, and age have not been associated with return-to-play rates. A factor that influences recovery is the participant's experience before and throughout the rehabilitation process, which can be explored using a qualitative content analysis.

Purpose

To explore and describe what influences the participant to return to physical activity after an Achilles tendon rupture.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Twenty participants (14 men; mean age, 46 years) were interviewed as part of this study. All participants had ruptured their Achilles tendon 4 to 6 years before the interviews. From the interviews, codes were extracted that evolved into 19 subcategories, 6 categories, and 1 theme.

Results

The overarching theme that emerged was "Help me and then I can fix this." The 6 categories were (1) one's own drive to succeed, (2) having a supportive social network, (3) trusting the support from the health and social systems, (4) receiving and adapting information from others drives persistence in returning to activity, (5) impact of the injury on psychological factors; and (6) influence of physiological aspects.

Conclusion

To be able to recover properly from an Achilles tendon rupture and return to activity, the study participants described the importance of obtaining the support needed to be able to gain optimal rehabilitation. In the participants' opinion, for a greater chance of successful treatment and rehabilitation, it was vital to be provided with good support.

Percutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable suture: Outcomes and complications

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes and complications of percutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Prospective cohort study including 52 patients treated for Achilles tendon ruptures (January 2016 to March 2019).

INCLUSION CRITERIA

≥18 years of age, non-insertional Achilles tendon ruptures. Diagnosis based on clinical criteria, confirmed by ultrasonography. Assessment using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS) and ultrasound. Re-rupture rate and postoperative complications were collected.

RESULTS

VAS scoring (SD) at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months follow-up (FU) were 2.63 (0.83), 1.79 (1.25), 0.69 (1.09) and 0.08 (0.39), respectively. Mean (SD) ATRS score was 92.45 points at 6 months (6.27) and 94.04 points at 12 months FU (4.59). Three re-ruptures (5.77%) occurred with a mean time between surgery and re-rupture of 108.75 days (SD 28.4), all of them within 4-month FU. No ruptures at the time to return to sports activity. Thirteen complications (25%) (3 re-ruptures, 1 superficial wound infection and 9 transitory sural nerve injuries).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures in patients with acute Achilles tendon ruptures has shown good functional results but with a high incidence of complications. Although most complications were transitory sural nerve symptoms, these would be avoided with conservative treatment. Conservative treatment associated with an early weight-bearing rehabilitation protocol should be considered a viable option for patients with Achilles tendon ruptures, specially in cooperative young patients.

Percutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable suture: Outcomes and complications

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes and complications of percutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Prospective cohort study including 52 patients treated for Achilles tendon ruptures (January 2016 to March 2019).

INCLUSION CRITERIA

≥18 years of age, non-insertional Achilles tendon ruptures. Diagnosis based on clinical criteria, confirmed by ultrasonography. Assessment using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS) and ultrasound. Re-rupture rate and postoperative complications were collected.

RESULTS

VAS scoring (SD) at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months follow-up (FU) were 2.63 (0.83), 1.79 (1.25), 0.69 (1.09) and 0.08 (0.39), respectively. Mean (SD) ATRS score was 92.45 points at 6 months (6.27) and 94.04 points at 12 months FU (4.59). Three re-ruptures (5.77%) occurred with a mean time between surgery and re-rupture of 108.75 days (SD 28.4), all of them within 4-month FU. No ruptures at the time to return to sports activity. Thirteen complications (25%) (3 re-ruptures, 1 superficial wound infection and 9 transitory sural nerve injuries).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable sutures in patients with acute Achilles tendon ruptures has shown good functional results but with a high incidence of complications. Although most complications were transitory sural nerve symptoms, these would be avoided with conservative treatment. Conservative treatment associated with an early weight-bearing rehabilitation protocol should be considered a viable option for patients with Achilles tendon ruptures, specially in cooperative young patients.

Operative vs Nonoperative Management of Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Cost Analysis

Background

Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is a common injury with a growing incidence rate. Treatment is either operative or nonoperative. However, evidence is lacking on the cost comparison between these modalities. The objective of this study is to investigate the cost differences between operative and nonoperative treatment of ATR using a large national database.

Methods

Patients who received treatment for an ATR were abstracted from the large national commercial insurance claims database, Marketscan Commercial Claims and Encounters Database (n = 100 825) and divided into nonoperative (n = 75 731) and operative (n = 25 094) cohorts. Demographics, location, and health care charges were compared using multivariable regression analysis. Subanalysis of costs for medical services including clinic visits, imaging studies, opioid usage, and physical therapy were conducted. Patients who underwent secondary repair were excluded.

Results

Operative treatment was associated with increased net and total payments, coinsurance, copayment, deductible, coordination of benefits (COB) / savings, greater number of clinic visits, radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and physical therapy (PT) sessions, and with higher net costs due to clinic visits, radiographs, MRIs, and PT (P < .001). Operative repair at an ambulatory surgical center was associated with a lower net and total payment, and a significantly higher deductible compared to in-hospital settings (P < .001). Both cohorts received similar numbers of opioid prescriptions during the study period. Yet, operative patients had a significantly shorter duration of opioid use. After controlling for confounders, operative repair was also independently associated with lower net costs due to opioid prescriptions.

Conclusion

Compared with nonoperatively managed ATR, surgical repair is associated with greater costs partially because of greater utilization of clinic visits, imaging, and physical therapy sessions. However, surgical costs may be reduced when procedures are performed in ambulatory surgery centers vs hospital facilities. Nonoperative treatment is associated with higher prescription costs secondary to longer duration of opioid use.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Operative versus conservative treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures: preliminary results of clinical outcome, kinematic MRI and contrast-enhanced ultrasound

INTRODUCTION

There is no uniform consensus on the gold standard therapy for acute Achilles tendon rupture. The aim of this pilot study was to compare operative and conservative treatment regarding imaging findings and clinical outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Surgically or conservatively treated patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture were retrospectively evaluated. Differences in tendon length and diameter with and without load were analysed using kinematic MRI, tendon perfusion, structural alterations, movement and scar tissue by means of grey-scale and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Intra- and interobserver agreement were recorded.

RESULTS

No significant difference was detected regarding clinical outcome, B mode ultrasonography, contrast-enhanced sonography or MRI findings, although alterations in MRI-based measurements of tendon elasticity were found for both groups. Considerable elongation and thickening of the injured tendon were detected in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Both, conservative and surgical treatment showed comparable outcomes in our preliminary results and may suggest non-inferiority of a conservative approach.

Comparison Study of Mini-Incision Versus Original Open Technique of the Half-Mini-Bunnell Achilles Tendon Repair

Mini-incision surgical procedures in our institution have been developed by decreasing the total skin incision length from the original mini half-Bunnell tendon repair technique. We hypothesized that the mini-incision, or minimum invasive Achilles tendon repair technique, would promote the tendon healing process leading to better outcomes and a reduced complication rate compared to the conventional open repair. The study sought to determine the more optimal method by comparing 44 mini-incision sutures to the 99 sutures in the original open Achilles tendon repairs. The mean skin incision length of the mini-incision surgery was 2.9 (range 2.5-3.0) cm and the original repair was 4.2 (range 3.5-7.0) cm. The mean surgery time was 60.0 minutes in the mini-incision repair and 68.1 minutes in the original one (p = .0003). The mean achievement time of bilateral heel-rise, starting jogging, single-legged heel-rise movement and the time to return-to-play was not significantly different between the 2 groups. Achilles Tendon Rupture Score was not significantly different from 3 to 9 months after surgery. Re-injury rate was 1/44 (2.3%) in mini-incision and 4/99 (4.0%) in conventional open repair (p = .36). No patients in either group developed any postoperative infections nor deep vein thrombosis complications. Although the mini-incision half-mini-Bunnell suture was showed equivalent clinical results to the original open repair, the technique is recommended in terms of curtailment of the surgery time without increase of complication ratio.

The usage of drainage after primary total hip or knee arthroplasty: best evidence selection and risk of bias considerations

Background

Numerous systematic reviews investigating the benefit of the usage of drainage after primary total hip or knee arthroplasty have been published with divergent conclusions. We aim to determine the best available evidence and consider risk of bias of these articles and to provide recommendations.

Methods

A systematic search of systematic reviews published through to May 2020 was performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane library. Methodological quality, risk of bias and best evidence choice of included articles were evaluated by AMSTAR instrument, ROBIS tool and Jadad decision algorithm, respectively. We selected systematic reviews with high methodological quality and low risk of bias ultimately as best evidence.

Results

Twelve meta-analyses were included lastly. According to the ROBIS tool, seven of the included systematic reviews were with low risk of bias and five with high risk of bias. The Jadad decision algorithm suggested that two reviews conducted by Zan et al. for hip and Si et al. et al. for knee were selected as the best evidence, with highest AMSTAR score and low risk of bias.

Conclusions

Ten systematic reviews were included as low-quality with only two high-quality studies. Based on the current available evidence, we have insufficient confidence to draw conclusion that whether to use closed suction drainage for both total knee and hip arthroplasty. To verify the necessity and benefit of using closed suction drainage after primary total knee and hip arthroplasty, and develop exact recommendations, further studies are still required.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-021-04897-z.

Treatment of Acute Achilles Tendon Ruptures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Complication Rates With Best- and Worst-Case Analyses for Rerupture Rates

BACKGROUND

An acute Achilles tendon rupture (AATR) is a common injury. The controversy that has surrounded the optimal treatment options for AATRs warrants an updated meta-analysis that is comprehensive, accounts for loss to follow-up, and utilizes the now greater number of available studies for data pooling.

PURPOSE

To meta-analyze the rates of all complications after the treatment of AATRs with a "best-case scenario" and "worst-case scenario" analysis for rerupture rates that assumes that all patients lost to follow-up did not or did experience a rerupture, respectively.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

Two authors performed a systematic review of the PubMed and Embase databases according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines on February 17, 2020. The included studies were assessed in terms of the level of evidence, quality of evidence, and quality of the literature. A meta-analysis by fixed-effects models was performed if heterogeneity was low (I² < 25%) and by random-effects models if heterogeneity was moderate to high (I²≥ 25%).

RESULTS

Surgical treatment was significantly favored over nonsurgical treatment for reruptures. Nonsurgical treatment was significantly favored over surgical treatment for complications other than reruptures, notably infections. Minimally invasive surgery was significantly favored over open repair for complications other than reruptures (no difference for reruptures), in particular for minor complications.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis demonstrated that surgical treatment was superior to nonsurgical treatment in terms of reruptures. However, the number needed to treat analysis produced nonmeaningful values for all treatment options, except for surgical versus nonsurgical treatment and minimally invasive surgery versus open repair. No single treatment option was revealed to be profoundly favorable with respect to every complication. The results of this meta-analysis can guide clinicians and patients in their treatment decisions that should be made jointly and on a case-by-case basis.

Increase in Achilles Tendon Rupture Surgery in Japan: Results From a Nationwide Health Care Database

Background:

Nationwide epidemiologic studies in Scandinavian countries have shown that the incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) has increased, and the rate of surgical treatment has declined markedly in the past decade. However, there is a lack of national-level data on the trend of ATRs and surgical procedures in other regions.

Purpose:

To clarify the trend in the incidence of ATRs and the proportion of surgery using the nationwide health care database in Japan.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

Age- and sex-stratified data on the annual number of ATRs and surgical procedures between 2010 and 2017 were obtained from the Japanese national health care database, which includes almost all inpatient and outpatient medical claims nationwide. The Japanese population data were also obtained from the population census. The change in the annual incidence of ATRs per 100,000 people was assessed using a Poisson regression analysis. The trend in the annual proportion of surgeries relative to the occurrence of tendon ruptures was determined using a linear regression analysis.

Results:

A total of 112,601 ATRs, with men accounting for 67%, were identified over 8 years. Patients aged ≥60 years accounted for 27,106 (24%), while those aged 20 to 39 years and 40 to 59 years accounted for 36,164 (32%) and 49,331 (44%), respectively. The annual incidence of ATR ranged from 12.8/100,000 to 13.9/100,000 (women, 8.2-8.9/100,000; men, 17.2-19.5/100,000), which did not change over the study period (P = .82). Moreover, the annual incidences did not change across sexes and age categories. The annual proportion of surgery increased significantly, from 67% in 2010 to 72% in 2017 (P = .003). The annual proportions increased across sexes and age categories except for women aged 40 to 59 years.

Conclusion:

The incidence of ATR did not change between 2010 and 2017, according to the Japanese nationwide health care database. Furthermore, the proportion of surgical treatment increased during the study period. Overall, 70% of patients underwent surgical treatment. This study suggested that the trend in ATR and surgery differed across regions.

Effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma injections for the treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture is still controversial. The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the efficacy of PRP injections treating acute Achilles tendon rupture.

METHODS

A comprehensive electronic literature search was performed in the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases to identify relevant studies that were published prior to April 29, 2021. Randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of PRP injections in treating patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture were included. Statistical analyses were conducted using RevMan software.

RESULTS

Five randomized controlled trials were included in this systematic review. The results of the meta-analysis showed that PRP has positive effects on ankle dorsiflexion angle, dorsal extension strength of the ankle, and calf circumference compared with that in controls. However, the current evidence failed to show that PRP effectively improves ankle plantar flexion angle, plantar flexion strength of the ankle, and pain.

CONCLUSIONS

PRP injections for the treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture significantly improved ankle dorsiflexion angle, dorsal extension strength of the ankle, and calf circumference compared with that in controls. Additional studies with larger sample sizes, more rigorous designs and standardized protocols are needed to draw more reliable and accurate conclusions.

What Is the Best Evidence to Guide Management of Acute Achilles Tendon Ruptures? A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Uncertainty exists regarding the best treatment for acute Achilles tendon ruptures. Simultaneous comparison of the multiple treatment options using traditional study designs is problematic; multiarm clinical trials often are logistically constrained to small sample sizes, and traditional meta-analyses are limited to comparisons of only two treatments that have been compared in head-to-head trials. Network meta-analyses allow for simultaneous comparison of all existing treatments utilizing both direct (head-to-head comparison) and indirect (not previously compared head-to-head) evidence.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We performed a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to answer the following questions: Considering open repair, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) repair, functional rehabilitation, or primary immobilization for acute Achilles tendon ruptures, (1) which intervention is associated with the lowest risk of rerupture? (2) Which intervention is associated with the lowest risk of complications resulting in surgery?

METHODS

This study was conducted with methods guided by the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and is reported in adherence with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension statement for incorporating network meta-analysis. Five databases and grey literature sources (such as major orthopaedic meeting presentation lists) were searched from inception to September 30, 2019. Included studies were RCTs comparing treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures using two or more of the following interventions: primary immobilization, functional rehabilitation, open surgical repair, or MIS repair. We excluded studies enrolling patients with chronic ruptures, reruptures, and preexisting Achilles tendinopathy as well as studies with more than 20% loss to follow-up or less than 6 months of follow-up. Nineteen RCTs (1316 patients) were included in the final analysis. The mean number of patients per study treatment arm was 35 ± 16, mean age was 41 ± 5 years, mean sex composition was 80% ± 10% males, and mean follow-up was 22 ± 12 months. The four treatment groups were compared for the main outcomes of rerupture and complications resulting in operation. The analysis was conducted using random-effects Bayesian network meta-analysis with vague priors. Evidence quality was evaluated using Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. We found risk of selection, attrition, and reporting bias to be low across treatments, and we found the risk of performance and detection bias to be high. Overall risk of bias between treatments appeared similar.

RESULTS

We found that treatment with primary immobilization had a greater risk of rerupture than open surgery (odds ratio 4.06 [95% credible interval {CrI} 1.47 to 11.88]; p < 0.05). There were no other differences between treatments for risk of rerupture. Minimally invasive surgery was ranked first for fewest complications resulting in surgery and was associated with a lower risk of complications resulting in surgery than functional rehabilitation (OR 0.16 [95% CrI 0.02 to 0.90]; p < 0.05), open surgery (OR 0.22 [95% CrI 0.04 to 0.93]; p < 0.05), and primary immobilization (OR < 0.01 [95% CrI < 0.01 to 0.01]; p < 0.05). Risk of complications resulting in surgery was no different between primary immobilization and open surgery (OR 1.46 [95% CrI 0.35 to 5.36]). Data for patient-reported outcome scores and return to activity were inappropriate for pooling secondary to considerable clinical heterogeneity and imprecision associated with small sample sizes.

CONCLUSION

Faced with acute Achilles tendon rupture, patients should be counseled that, based on the best-available evidence, the risk of rerupture likely is no different across contemporary treatments. Considering the possibly lower risk of complications resulting in surgery associated with MIS repair, patients and surgeons must balance any benefit with the potential risks of MIS techniques. As treatments continue to evolve, consistent reporting of validated patient-reported outcome measures is critically important to facilitate analysis with existing RCT evidence. Infrequent but serious complications such as rerupture and deep infection should be further explored to determine whether meaningful differences exist in specific patient populations.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, therapeutic study.

The Influence of Early Weightearing, Controlled Motion, and Timing of Orthosis Removal on the Nonoperative Management of Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Systematic Review

This is a systematic review of the non-operative treatment for Achilles tendon rupture aimed at assessing the effect of early weightbearing, controlled motion and orthosis removal on 5 outcome measures. The literature was searched for relevant RCTs and prospective cohort studies. The primary outcome measure was the re-rupture rate. The secondary outcome measures were the rates for DVT, duration before return to work (RTW), return to sports (RTS) and the mean Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS). Eighteen publications reporting a total of 1068 patients were reviewed. The pooled rates were: re-rupture: 7.3%, DVT: 5.5%, RTW: 10.3 weeks, RTS: 47.7% and ATRS: 78.7. Early compared to late weightbearing was associated with significantly lower rates of DVT, RTW and ATRS but no difference in the rates of re-rupture and RTS. Early controlled motion compared to no motion was associated with significantly lower rates of re-rupture, RTW and ATRS but no difference in the rates of DVT and RTS. Early compared to late orthosis removal was associated with significantly higher rates of re-rupture and ATRS as well as a lower rate of RTW but no difference in the rates of DVT and RTS. The findings relating to re-rupture, DVT, RTW and RTS support the adoption of early weightbearing and controlled motion in the non-operative treatment for Achilles tendon rupture. Early removal of orthosis is not advisable due to an increased risk of re-rupture. The ATRS results were considered inconclusive probably due to inconsistencies in the reporting or heterogeneity in the study population.

How Do Sports Medicine and Foot and Ankle Specialists Treat Acute Achilles Tendon Ruptures?

Background. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the treatment considerations and surgical techniques utilized by fellowship-trained orthopaedic sports medicine and foot and ankle specialists in the management of Achilles tendon ruptures. Methods. A blinded electronic survey was distributed to 2062 fellowship-trained sports medicine and 1319 fellowship-trained foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeons. The total number of acute Achilles tendon ruptures managed per year, patient-specific factors associated with surgical decision making and surgical techniques were evaluated. Results. Of the 3381 surveys distributed, 524 responses were included for analysis. Only 9% of respondents manage more than 20 acute Achilles tendon ruptures per year with the majority (75%) managing less than 10 per year. Operative management is the treatment of choice for 76% of total respondents with only 8% managing acute ruptures nonoperatively. Activity level and patient age were the single most important factors for 60.8% and 29.3% of surgeons, respectively, with regard to operative versus nonoperative decision making. Socioeconomic status and workers compensation were the least important patient factors. Conclusion. Surgical repair in the young and active patient is the preferred treatment for the majority of fellowship-trained subspecialists who most commonly encounter this pathology.Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level V: Consensus of Expert Analysis.

Systematic Review of Nonoperative Functional Protocols for Acute Achilles Ruptures Utilizing a Formal Rehabilitation Protocol Showing Lowest Rerupture Rates

AIM

To lay out a comprehensive protocol for practitioners and physical therapists that has the lowest rerupture rates for nonoperative treatment of acute Achilles ruptures.

METHOD

Relevant articles were searched in PubMed, CINAHL Plus, and Cochrane Library using keyword combinations: nonoperative AND/OR Achilles rupture AND functional AND/OR protocol or functional AND/OR rehabilitation. To be included in the full analysis, the studies had to have detailed functional protocols with physical therapy program details and outcome scores of rupture rates and/or Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS). We ultimately found 7 articles that fit our inclusion criteria for analysis. All of them had rerupture rates, and 4 had ATRS scores and functional protocols with mention of formal physical therapy programs.

RESULTS

Lowest rerupture rates were found in strict functional rehabilitation protocols that were full weightbearing in boot immediately at full equinus or 30° plantar flexed. They started active range of motion at 5 to 8 weeks and started formal physical therapy at 10 weeks.Levels of Evidence: Level III: Evidence obtained from well-designed non-experimental descriptive studies.

Unusual Presentation of a Swelling in the Achilles Tendon After an Acute Rupture: A Case Report

Introduction

Achilles tendon rupture is common and most cases heal with appropriate treatment. However, complications in the treatment of this condition can be debilitating, especially for young, active individuals.

Case Report

We present the case of a 37-year-old man who presented with ongoing pain on weight-bearing and swelling in the left Achilles tendon area8 months after acute rupture treated with functional bracing and early rehabilitation. Magnetic resonance imaging showed intrasubstance thickening of the tendon with a large swelling. Successful decompression of the swelling was achieved using an arthroscopic technique and the patient returned to normal activities.

Conclusion

Physiotherapy and return to normal activities were limited in our patient due to high levels of discomfort and pain. Prolonged immobility following tendon rupture has been shown to cause increased scar tissue proliferation. This may have hindered functional rehabilitation progress and negatively impacted on the reparative process.

Conservative treatment of Achilles tendon partial tear in a futsal player: A case report

Background and purpose: Achilles tendon is the most commonly injured part in the lower limb, especially in athletes. Treatment options for Achilles tendinopathy and total rupture are well described; however, there is a lack of information regarding treatment protocols for partial tears. Thus, the purpose of this case report was to describe the examination, intervention and outcomes of patient who suffered an acute Achilles tendon partial tear. Case description: A case is described here, in which the diagnosis of Achilles tendon partial tear was based on both magnetic resonance imaging and physical evaluation. Both the patient and the physical therapy team opted for non-surgical treatment. A 12-week course of conservative treatment including exercise, tendon loading, electrical stimulation, and photobiomodulation is described. Outcomes: Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and hop tests. Discussion: This case report demonstrated that non-surgical treatment for Achilles tendon partial tear was effective for this patient and enabled the athlete to return to pre-injury levels of activity 6 months following the injury.

Open Re-rupture of the Achilles Tendon Following Minimally Invasive Repair: A Case Report

In this report, we describe a rare complication of an open re-rupture of the Achilles tendon following a minimally invasive Achilles tendon repair on a healthy 29-year-old active male. The reinjury happened 19 weeks following the primary surgical repair of a spontaneous rupture, performed by minimally invasive technique with the help of a jig using partially absorbable sutures and four locking stitches. The wound of the open re-rupture was transverse, in a perpendicular orientation relative to the longitudinal approach used in the index procedure. Increased scar tissue formation, the absence of an adequate layer of paratenon overlying the primary tendon repair, and foreign-body reaction to the suture may have been involved in the occurrence of this unusual complication in the surgical treatment of Achilles tendon rupture.

Older Age Predicts Worse Function 1 Year After an Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Prognostic Multicenter Study on 391 Patients

Background

There is limited evidence regarding the patient-related factors that influence treatment outcomes after an acute Achilles tendon rupture.

Purpose/Hypothesis

The purpose of this study was to determine the predictors of functional and patient-reported outcomes 1 year after an acute Achilles tendon rupture using a multicenter cohort and to determine patient characteristics for reporting within the top and bottom 10% of the Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) and heel-rise height outcomes. The hypothesis was that older age, greater body mass index (BMI), and female sex would lead to inferior outcomes.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Patients were selected by combining 5 randomized controlled trials from 2 different centers in Sweden. Functional outcomes were assessed using validated heel-rise tests (height, number of repetitions, total work, and concentric power) for muscular endurance and strength, and the relationship between injured and uninjured legs was calculated as the limb symmetry index (LSI). Patient-reported outcomes were measured using the ATRS. All outcomes were collected at the 1-year follow-up. Independent predictors included were patient sex, smoking, BMI, age, and surgical versus nonsurgical treatment.

Results

Of the 391 included patients, 307 (79%) were treated surgically. The LSI of heel-rise height at the 1-year follow-up decreased by approximately 4% for every 10-year increment in age (beta, -3.94 [95% CI, -6.19 to -1.69]; P = .0006). In addition, every 10-year increment in age resulted in a 1.79-fold increase in the odds of being in the lowest 10% of the LSI of heel-rise height. Moreover, a nonsignificant superior LSI of heel-rise height was found in patients treated surgically compared with nonsurgical treatment (beta, -4.49 [95% CI, -9.14 to 0.16]; P = .058). No significant predictor was related to the ATRS. Smoking, patient sex, and BMI did not significantly affect the 1-year results for the LSI of the heel-rise tests.

Conclusion

Older age at the time of injury negatively affected heel-rise height 1 year after an Achilles tendon rupture. Irrespective of age, a nonsignificant relationship toward the superior recovery of heel-rise height was seen in patients treated surgically. None of the factors studied affected patient-reported outcomes.

Validity and Reliability of Mini-Invasive Surgery Assisted by Ultrasound in Achilles Tendon Rupture

Introduction:

The surgical treatment for Achilles tendon rupture has become very popular in the last years, because of the good outcomes and the low re-rupture rate.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to compare the results between open surgery and percutaneous ultrasound-assisted surgery.

Methods:

All patients who underwent an Achilles tendon surgical repair in the last 3 years were included, resulting in a total of 56 patients (40 M and 16 F) with an average age of 53 years. Of these patients, 36 were treated with an open suture, while 20 with a mini invasive ultrasound assisted suture. At a minimum follow-up of one year, patients were evaluated echografically, using both the Achilles Tendon Rupture Total score (ATRS) and the McComis score, and performing the ultrasounds bilaterally to assess both the structure and the diameter of tendons.

Results:

Both groups of patients showed an average ATRS score >80. The McComis score was 54.18 vs. 56.25 (p>0.05). Plantar flexion and dorsal flexion work were not similar (p>0.05). On average, the calf circumference of the operated side was decreased compared to the healthy side between the groups (p>0.05). The thickness of the operated tendons evaluated with ultrasound measurement compared to the average tendon, (p <0.05).

Conclusion:

The ultrasound-assisted tenorrhaphy is a reliable treatment with good clinical and functional outcomes; anyway, the percutaneous technique and the open surgery show similar results.

Protocol for treatment of Achilles tendon ruptures; a systematic review with network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Achilles tendon ruptures are a common injury and are increasing in incidence. Several management strategies exist for both non-operative and operative care, with each strategy offering unique risks and benefits. Traditional pairwise meta-analyses have been performed to compare management strategies; however, all treatment options have never been integrated in a single analysis. Network meta-analysis (NMA) is a generalization of pairwise meta-analysis, which allows for the comparison of multiple interventions based on all available direct and indirect evidence. The objectives of this review are to synthesize the evidence on the management options for acute Achilles tendon rupture and identify which treatment gives the best functional outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic review with NMA is planned. An electronic literature search will be performed in conjunction with an experienced information specialist in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PEDro, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. We will include randomized controlled trials with a minimum 6-month follow-up. Two independent reviewers will screen citations for eligibility, extract study data, and perform risk of bias assessments. The primary outcome will be disease-specific functional outcome scores (AOFAS, Leppilahti, modified Leppilahti) at 1 year. Secondary outcomes will include complications (re-rupture, sural nerve injury, wound complications, deep infection, secondary surgeries), strength, range of motion, return to work, return to sport, and quality-of-life measures (including the SF-36 questionnaire). Traditional pairwise meta-analyses will be performed for all direct comparisons where evidence is available, and NMAs will subsequently be performed where possible to compare all management strategies.

DISCUSSION

The data generated from this review will provide health-care providers with a clear evidence synthesis of all Achilles tendon rupture management strategies. Additionally, these data will be incorporated into the development of a patient decision aid to assist patients and clinicians in making a preference-based decision when faced with an Achilles tendon rupture.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42018093033 .

Mapping functions in health-related quality of life: mapping from the Achilles Tendon Rupture Score to the EQ-5D

PURPOSE

Health state utility values are derived from preference-based measurements and are useful in calculating quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), which is a metric commonly used in cost-effectiveness studies. The purpose of this study was to convert the Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS) to the preference-based European Quality of Life-5 Dimension Questionnaire (EQ-5D) by estimating the relationship between the two scores using mapping.

METHODS

Data were collected from a randomised controlled trial, where 100 patients were treated either surgically or non-surgically for Achilles tendon rupture. Forty-three and forty-four patients in surgical group and non-surgical group completed the ATRS and the EQ-5D alongside each other during follow-up at three time points. Different models of the relationship between the ATRS and the EQ-5D were developed and analysed based on direct mapping and cross-validation. The model with the lowest mean absolute error was observed as the one with the best fit.

RESULTS

Among the competing models, mapping based on using a combination of the ATRS items four, five, and six associated with limitation due to pain, during activities of daily living and when walking on uneven ground, produced the best predictor of the EQ-5D score.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study provides a mapping algorithm to enable the derivation of utility values directly from the ATRS. This approach makes it feasible for researchers, as well as medical practitioners, to obtain preference-based values in clinical studies or settings where only the ATRS is being administered. The algorithm allows for the calculation of QALYs for use in cost-effectiveness analyses, making it valuable in the study of acute Achilles tendon ruptures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Correction to: Total disc replacement versus fusion for lumbar degenerative disc disease: a systematic review of overlapping meta-analyses

The authors declare that when writing their article [1] they referenced two previously published papers [2, 3]. Several sentences on pages 807, 808, and 813 were similar to sentences from these two previously published articles.

Is open acute Achilles tendon rupture repair still justified? A single center experience and critical appraisal of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Acute Achilles tendon ruptures are injuries with multiple treatment strategies with possibly far reaching consequences. Open repair is associated with a high complication rate, whereas percutaneous techniques are associated with higher re-rupture rates. The goal of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome and economic burden of open surgical repair and define a medically and economically sound treatment protocol for acute Achilles tendon ruptures.

METHODS

Between June 2012 and December 2016 one hundred and five patients with an acute Achilles tendon rupture, treated in an open surgical manner, were studied retrospectively. All demographic, clinical and hospital-related costs were retrieved from the electronic patient database. ATRS questionnaires were sent to assess the functional outcome. A response rate of 70.5% was achieved.

RESULTS

We recorded a complication rate of 40%, respectively sural nerve hypoesthesia (14.3%), delayed wound healing (28.6%), infection (20.9%) and re-rupture (4.8%). Surgical resident, as primary operating surgeon was associated with a higher complication rate (p = 0.042). Overall, a median functional ATRS score of 17 (IQR 6.5-39.5) was recorded. Infection was associated with significantly higher total healthcare costs per patient as compared to re-rupture (€17,435 vs. €4,537, p = 0.013). The total cost for surgical debridement (n = 6) was approximately 5-times higher than for re-rupture (n = 5), €108,382 vs. €22,272. The median ATRS score for surgical debridement after infection and re-rupture did not differ significantly from the overall ATRS score, respectively 32 (IQR 21-63) and 28 (IQR 15-28). Nevertheless, a difference of 10 points is considered clinically relevant.

CONCLUSION

The overall functional outcome of open repair of Achilles tendon ruptures is rather good, however associated with a high complication rate, mainly due to wound problems and infection. Although several risk factors were identified, only the operating surgeon is modifiable. Considering the high total costs for surgical debridement in the context of infection compared to re-rupture surgery, despite equal functional outcome,we decided to change clinical practice to reduce the complication rate and healthcare costs. The outcome and precise costs for percutaneous repair will be addressed.

Safety of intra-articular steroid injections prior to arthroplasty: Best evidence selection and risk of bias considerations

AIM

Several systematic reviews have been performed to investigate whether intra-articular steroid injections can increase the risk of infection in subsequent arthroplasty. However, the conclusions of these systematic reviews are discordant. The purpose of the present study was to select best evidence and consider risk of bias of these systematic reviews and to provide recommendations through the best evidence.

METHODS

The systematic reviews that compared the infection rates of arthroplasty with or without previous intra-articular steroid injection were identified. The methodological quality and risk of bias of included systematic reviews were assessed by the AMSTAR instrument and ROBIS tool, respectively. Heterogeneity information within each variable was extracted from the included studies. The Jadad algorithm was then used to determine which systematic reviews can provide the best evidence.

RESULTS

Six systematic reviews were eligible for inclusion. The Jadad decision-making tool suggested that two reviews with highest AMSTAR score should be selected. According to the ROBIS tool, there were three systematic reviews with low risk of bias and three with high risk of bias. As a result, two systematic reviews conducted by Charalambous et al. and Marsland et al. with highest AMSTAR scores and low risk of bias were selected as the best evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates that intra-articular steroid injections prior to arthroplasty did not increase infection rates severely after the operation. However, the strength of recommendation is weak due to the limitations of current evidence. Further high-quality primary studies are still required.

Outcome of Percutaneous Fixation of Acute Achilles Tendon Ruptures

BACKGROUND

Conservative treatment of an acute Achilles rupture remains a viable and acceptable option as does surgical fixation, with open and percutaneous repair consisting the main operative techniques. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes and complication rates of open versus percutaneous surgical procedures.

METHODS

From 2009 to 2016, 131 patients were admitted to our department with clinically and radiologically confirmed acute Achilles tendon ruptures. Of those, 82 patients met our inclusion criteria and were randomized into 2 groups, group A (open repair) and group B (percutaneous suturing). Suture equipment was the same for both groups. All patients followed the same rehabilitation protocol. Functional evaluation was made using American Orthopaedic Ankle & Foot Society (AOFAS) hindfoot and Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) questionnaires at the 12-month follow-up. Ankle range of motion (ROM), return-to-work time, and complication rates were additionally measured.

RESULTS

Both techniques had similar results regarding complication rates and return-to-work time. The major complication in group A was superficial infection (7%) and skin necrosis (3%), whereas 3 patients in group B developed paresthesias due to sural nerve entrapment. Patients in group B had better AOFAS hindfoot (96/100) and ATRS (95/100) scores, but the difference was not significant. ROM was similar in both groups at the 12-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous suturing seems to be a safe and effective technique that offers good functional outcomes and low complication rates in patients with acute Achilles tendon ruptures who elect to have surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prospective case series.

Risk factors for complications after primary repair of Achilles tendon ruptures

Purpose

To identify patient characteristics associated with adverse events in Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) surgical repair cases.

Methods

A high risk (HR) cohort group of ATR patients were compared to healthy controls in the ACSNSQIP database with multivariate regression analysis.

Results

Overall, 2% (n = 23) of the group sustained an AE postoperatively, most commonly superficial SSI (0.9%, n = 10). Multivariate analysis did not reveal any patient characteristics to be significantly associated with the occurrence of an AE or superficial SSI.

Conclusions

Obesity, diabetes and a history of smoking did not predispose patients to significantly more AEs in the 30 day postoperative period following ATR repair in this study.

Mini open versus open repair techniques in Achilles tendon rupture: clinical and isokinetic evaluation

Background

The aim of the study was to compare the mini-open to the classic open repair techniques for Achilles tendon ruptures.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated at a minimum of 2 years follow-up 32 subcutaneous Achilles tendon ruptures; 17 underwent mini-open surgery (Group A) and 15 the open technique (Group B).

Results

No difference in Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score and in modified Leppillahti score was observed. With respect to the contralateral side the width of the operated Achilles tendon was 4.07 mm thicker in Group A and 7.67 mm in Group B (p<.05); the calf circumference reduction was respectively 10 mm and 23.75 mm (p<.05). Iso-kinetic peak force measurement of the calf muscle strength showed a loss of 8.21% in Group A versus 17.25% in Group B (p <.05). The mean Patient Satisfaction Score was 96.76 in Group A and 88.67 in Group B (p<.01); respectively 82.3% vs 66.7% of patients were able to return to previous levels of sporting activity. There were two post-operative complications in Group B and one in Group A.

Conclusion

Mini-open technique minimizes the risk of complications, leads to an improved tendon healing process and functional recovery with higher patient satisfaction.

Level of evidence

IV.

Incidence and risk factors for postoperative Achilles tendon calcifications after percutaneous repair

INTRODUCTION

Numerous publications are dealing with acute Achilles tendon rupture. To our knowledge, no systematic trial has been published analyzing the incidence, risk factors and the potential clinical impact of postoperative tendon calcifications (PTC) after percutaneous Achilles tendon repair. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze these relevant aspects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between March 2003 and November 2010, a total of 126 patients with an acute, complete Achilles tendon rupture were treated with a percutaneous technique according to Ma and Griffith at a single university-based trauma department. The follow-up included a detailed clinical and sonographic examination. To assess the functional outcome and possible impact of PTC after percutaneous Achilles tendon repair, the Thermann and AOFAS scores were used. 81 patients (65 men and 16 women) with a median age of 46 years (range 24-76) were available for a follow-up examination. The median time of follow-up was 64 months (range 15-110 months).

RESULTS

PTC occurred in nine out of 81 patients (11.1%). All patients with PTC were male with a median age of 52 years (range 26-76 years). In the group of patients with PTC, the median overall Thermann score was 94 (range 68-100) and the median overall AOFAS score was 97 (range 85-100). In the group of patients without PTC, the median overall Thermann score was 88.5 (range 60-100) and the median overall AOFAS score was 97 (range 85-100). No significant differences were detected between the group of patients with PTC and the group of patients without PTC and the clinical outcome according to the Thermann (p = 0.21) and the AOFAS scores (p = 0.37). None of the patients with PTC sustained a re-rupture. The overall re-rupture rate was 4.9%. PTC was no risk factor for wound and neurological complications.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of PTC after percutaneous Achilles tendon repair was 11.1%. Male gender and advanced age seem to be risk factors for PTC. In this study, PTC had no negative impact on the postoperative clinical outcome.

Calf Muscle Performance Deficits Remain 7 Years After an Achilles Tendon Rupture

BACKGROUND

Optimizing calf muscle performance seems to play an important role in minimizing impairments and symptoms after an Achilles tendon rupture (ATR). The literature lacks long-term follow-up studies after ATR that describe calf muscle performance over time.

PURPOSE

The primary aim was to evaluate calf muscle performance and patient-reported outcomes at a mean of 7 years after ATR in patients included in a prospective, randomized controlled trial. A secondary aim was to evaluate whether improvement in calf muscle performance continued after the 2-year follow-up.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

Sixty-six subjects (13 women, 53 men) with a mean age of 50 years (SD, 8.5 years) were evaluated at a mean of 7 years (SD, 1 year) years after their ATR. Thirty-four subjects had surgical treatment and 32 had nonsurgical treatment. Patient-reported outcomes were evaluated with Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) and Physical Activity Scale (PAS). Calf muscle performance was evaluated with single-leg standing heel-rise test, concentric strength power heel-rise test, and single-legged hop for distance. Limb Symmetry Index (LSI = injured side/healthy side × 100) was calculated for side-to-side differences.

RESULTS

Seven years after ATR, the injured side showed decreased values in all calf muscle performance tests ( P < .001-.012). Significant improvement in calf muscle performance did not continue after the 2-year follow-up. Heel-rise height increased significantly ( P = .002) between the 1-year (10.8 cm) and the 7-year (11.5 cm) follow-up assessments. The median ATRS was 96 (of a possible score of 100) and the median PAS was 4 (of a possible score of 6), indicating minor patient-reported symptoms and fairly high physical activity. No significant differences were found in calf muscle performance or patient-reported outcomes between the treatment groups except for the LSI for heel-rise repetitions.

CONCLUSION

Continued deficits in calf muscle endurance and strength remained 7 years after ATR. No continued improvement in calf muscle performance occurred after the 2-year follow-up except for heel-rise height.

Patients with an Achilles tendon re-rupture have long-term functional deficits and worse patient-reported outcome than primary ruptures

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to perform a long-term follow-up of patients treated for an Achilles tendon re-rupture, using established outcome measurements for tendon structure, lower extremity function and symptoms, and to compare the results with those for the uninjured side. A secondary aim was to compare the outcome with that of patients treated for primary ruptures. The hypotheses were that patients with a re-rupture recover well, and have similar long-term outcome as primary ruptures.

METHODS

Twenty patients (4 females) with a mean (SD) age of 44 (10.9) years, ranging from 24 to 64, were included. The patients were identified by reviewing the medical records of all Achilles tendon ruptures at Sahlgrenska University Hospital and Kungsbacka Hospital, Sweden, between 2006 and 2016. All patients received standardised surgical treatment and rehabilitation. The mean (SD) follow-up was 51 (38.1) months. A test battery of validated clinical and functional tests, patient-reported outcome measurements and measurements of tendon elongation were performed at the final follow-up. This cohort was then compared with the 2-year follow-up results from a previous randomised controlled trial of patients treated for primary Achilles tendon rupture.

RESULTS

There were deficits on the injured side compared with the healthy side in terms of heel-rise height (11.9 versus 12.5 cm, p = 0.008), repetitions (28.5 versus 31.7, p = 0.004) and drop-jump height (13.2 versus 15.1 cm, p = 0.04).  There was a significant difference in calf circumference (37.1 versus 38.4 cm, p =< 0.001) and ankle dorsiflexion on the injured side compared with the healthy side (35.3° versus 40.8°, p = 0.003). However, no significant differences were found in terms of tendon length 22.5 (2.5) cm on the injured side and 21.8 (2.8) cm on the healthy side. Compared with primary ruptures, the re-rupture cohort obtained significantly worse results for the Achilles tendon total rupture score, with a mean of 78 (21.2) versus 89.5 (14.6) points, (p = 0.007). The re-ruptures showed a higher mean LSI heel-rise height, 94.7% (9.3%) versus 83.5% (11.7%) (p = < 0.0001), and superior mean LSI eccentric-concentic power, 110.4% (49.8%) versus 79.3% (21%) (p = 0.001), than the primary ruptures.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that patients with an Achilles tendon re-rupture had continued symptoms and functional deficits on the injured side, after a long-term follow-up. Patients with an Achilles tendon re-rupture had worse patient-reported outcomes but similar or superior functional results compared with patients with primary ruptures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case series, Level IV.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of surgical versus non-surgical management of acute Achilles tendon ruptures

PURPOSE

An Achilles tendon rupture is a common injury that typically affects people in the middle of their working lives. The injury has a negative impact in terms of both morbidity for the individual and the risk of substantial sick leave. The aim of this study was to investigate the cost-effectiveness of surgical compared with non-surgical management in patients with an acute Achilles tendon rupture.

METHODS

One hundred patients (86 men, 14 women; mean age, 40 years) with an acute Achilles tendon rupture were randomised (1:1) to either surgical treatment or non-surgical treatment, both with an accelerated rehabilitation protocol (surgical n = 49, non-surgical n = 51). One of the surgical patients was excluded due to a partial re-rupture and five surgical patients were lost to the 1-year economic follow-up. One patient was excluded due to incorrect inclusion and one was lost to the 1-year follow-up in the non-surgical group. The cost was divided into direct and indirect costs. The direct cost is the actual cost of health care, whereas the indirect cost is the production loss related to the impact of the patient's injury in terms of lost ability to work. The health benefits were assessed using quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Sampling uncertainty was assessed by means of non-parametric boot-strapping.

RESULTS

Pre-injury, the groups were comparable in terms of demographic data and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The mean cost of surgical management was €7332 compared with €6008 for non-surgical management (p = 0.024). The mean number of QALYs during the 1-year time period was 0.89 and 0.86 in the surgical and non-surgical groups respectively. The (incremental) cost-effectiveness ratio was €45,855. Based on bootstrapping, the cost-effectiveness acceptability curve shows that the surgical treatment is 57% likely to be cost-effective at a threshold value of €50,000 per QALY.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical treatment was more expensive compared with non-surgical management. The cost-effectiveness results give a weak support (57% likelihood) for the surgical treatment to be cost-effective at a willingness to pay per QALY threshold of €50,000. This is support for surgical treatment; however, additionally cost-effectiveness studies alongside RCTs are important to clarify which treatment option is preferred from a cost-effectiveness perspective.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.

Redundant systematic reviews on the same topic in surgery: a study protocol for a meta-epidemiological investigation

INTRODUCTION

We are witnessing an explosive increase in redundant and overlapping publications of systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRs/MAs) on the same topic, which often present conflicting results and interpretations, in the current medical literature. They represent wasted efforts on the part of investigators and peer reviewers and may confuse and possibly mislead clinicians and policymakers. Here, we present a protocol for a meta-epidemiological investigation to describe how often there are overlapping SRs/MAs on the same topic, to assess the quality of these multiple publications, and to investigate the causes of discrepant results between multiple SRs/MAs in the field of major surgery.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will use MEDLINE/PubMed to identify all SRs/MAs of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in 2015 regarding major surgical interventions. After identifying the 'benchmark' SRs/MAs published in 2015, a process of screening in MEDLINE will be carried out to identify the previous SRs/MAs of RCTs on the same topic that were published within 5 years of the 'benchmark' SRs/MAs. We will tabulate the number of previous SRs/MAs on the same topic of RCTs, and then describe their variations in numbers of RCTs included, sample sizes, effect size estimates and other characteristics. We will also assess the differences in quality of each SR/MA using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) score. Finally, we will investigate the potential reasons to explain the discrepant results between multiple SRs/MAs.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

No formal ethical approval and informed consent are required because this study will not collect primary individual data. The intended audiences of the findings include clinicians, healthcare researchers and policymakers. We will publish our findings as a scientific report in a peer-reviewed journal.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

In PROSPERO CRD42017059077, March 2017.

Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture: Clinical Evaluation, Conservative Management, and Early Active Rehabilitation

The Achilles tendon (AT) is the strongest, largest, and most commonly ruptured tendon in the human body. Physical examination provides high sensitivity and specificity. Imaging studies are not recommended unless there are equivocal findings in the physical examination. Recent studies have shown that the risk of re-rupture is negated with implementation of functional rehabilitation protocols. Heterogeneity in study design makes conclusions on the specifics of functional rehabilitation protocols difficult; however, it is clear that early weight bearing and early controlled mobilization lead to better patient outcome and satisfaction in both surgically and conservatively treated populations.

[Injuries of major tendons : Review of current diagnostic and surgical standards]

Chronic degenerative tendon injuries as well as injuries due to acute high-energy trauma and incisional injuries are a significant aspect in the emergency surgery department. As a result of anatomical characteristics and exposure certain tendons are particularly vulnerable to injury. These include the biceps brachialis, quadriceps femoris, patella, achilles and tibialis anterior tendons. Besides the broad spectrum of non-surgical treatment, surgeons should have knowledge of the various surgical techniques including suturing, anchor refixation and reconstruction techniques. The indications for surgery are of particular importance for the clinical outcome of tendon injuries. The therapeutic approach should consider the patients biological age, functional requirements and pre-existing comorbid pathologies. Finally, adequate aftercare has been shown to significantly determine the surgical outcome.

Sonography of the Achilles Tendon After Complete Rupture Repair: What the Radiologist Should Know

This review aims to provide the radiologist with simple and systematic guidelines for evaluation of the Achilles tendon after complete rupture repair. Currently, there is a plethora of nonsurgical and surgical treatments, but sonographic examination has shown no significant differences between them. A systematic analysis of several parameters (morphologic characteristics, structure, color Doppler vascularization, and mobility) should be undertaken. Morphologically, the repaired tendon is larger, wider, or both. The loss of the fibrillary structure, inhomogeneity, and the surgical material in the context of the tendon are "normal" aspects after a repaired rupture. The presence of fluid collections when affecting greater than 50% of the surface of the tendon and extensive calcifications should be considered pathologic aspects. In the immediate postoperative period, there is the absence of vascularization detectable by color Doppler imaging. During the first 3 months, there is an increase in intratendinous vascularization with hypervascularization. From 3 to 6 months, stabilization and regression of the vascularization occur. Beyond the first 6 months, the hypervascularization is pathologic. The pattern of motion is, generally, reduced considerably more often in surgically treated tendons than in non-surgically treated ones. Elastography generally shows a hard appearance, with only a relatively heterogeneous pattern. In conclusion, a treated tendon will never regain a normal sonographic appearance, and the operator must distinguish between normal posttreatment changes and real pathologic characteristics.

Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid in Treating Knee Osteoarthritis: a PRISMA-Compliant Systematic Review of Overlapping Meta-analysis

Numerous meta-analyses have been conducted aiming to compare hyaluronic acid (HA) and placebo in treating knee osteoarthritis (OA). Nevertheless, the conclusions of these meta-analyses are not in consistency. The purpose of the present study was to perform a systematic review of overlapping meta-analyses investigating the efficacy and safety of HA for Knee OA and to provide treatment recommendations through the best evidence. A systematic review was conducted based on the PRISMA guidelines. The meta-analyses and/or systematic reviews that compared HA and placebo for knee OA were identified. AMSTAR instrument was used to evaluate the methodological quality of individual study. The information of heterogeneity within each variable was fetched for the individual studies. Which meta-analyses can provide best evidence was determined according to Jadad algorithm. Twelve meta-analyses met the eligibility requirements. The Jadad decision making tool suggests that the highest quality review should be selected. As a result, a high-quality Cochrane review was included. The present systematic review of overlapping meta-analyses demonstrates that HA is an effective intervention in treating knee OA without increased risk of adverse events. Therefore, the present conclusions may help decision makers interpret and choose among discordant meta-analyses.