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Qureshi A, Gulati A, Adukia V, Shah A, Mangwani J. The influence of the site of rupture and gap distance in acute Achilles tendon rupture treated with functional rehabilitation. Injury 2023; 54:1216-1221. [PMID: 36828734 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2023.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
AIM To determine the influence of gap distance and its location on clinical and radiological outcomes in patients with acute rupture of Tendo-Achilles (TA) treated non-operatively with functional rehabilitation. METHODS Twenty-six patients with acute complete TA rupture underwent ultrasound (US) scanning within a week of their injury. The measurements taken included the distance of the rupture from the enthesis and the gap distance between the tendon edges in varying degrees of ankle and knee positions. All patients were managed non-operatively in functional weight-bearing orthoses. Nineteen patients were then followed up at a mean of 6.1 years (range 5.8-6.5) to assess their clinical and radiological outcomes. The outcomes included ultrasound assessment of tendon healing, Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS) and modified Leppilahti Score (mLS). RESULTS In the initial ultrasound, the mean distance of the rupture from the enthesis was 52 mm (range: 40-76). The mean gap distance with the foot plantigrade was 11.4 mm, which reduced to 4.8 mm with the foot in equinus. At final follow up, no re-ruptures had occurred. The mean ATRS and mLS were 86 and 71 respectively. There was a significant correlation between the distance of the rupture from the enthesis with the MLS total score (p = 0.02), mLS Fatigue domain score (p = 0.03), and the ATRS domains of strength (p = 0.04) and fatigue (p = 0.02). There was no significant correlation between the measured gap distance with respect to the mLS, ATRS or individual ATRS domain scores. Also, there was no significant difference in ATRS and mLS outcomes when comparing tendons with respect to healed tissue appearance and fibre orientation on ultrasound. CONCLUSION The initial gap distance had no relationship with any of the measured clinical outcomes at the final follow up. The distance of the gap from the enthesis, however, may carry a greater prognostic value following non-operative treatment of Achilles tendon injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vidhi Adukia
- University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, UK.
| | - Amit Shah
- University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, UK
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The epidemiology of Achilles tendon re-rupture and associated risk factors: male gender, younger age and traditional immobilising rehabilitation are risk factors. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2022; 30:2457-2469. [PMID: 35018477 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-021-06824-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology of Achilles tendon re-rupture. Secondary aims were to identify factors predisposing to increased Achilles tendon re-rupture risk, at the time of primary Achilles tendon rupture. METHODS A retrospective review of all patients with primary Achilles tendon rupture and Achilles tendon re-rupture was undertaken. Two separate databases were compiled: the first included all Achilles tendon re-ruptures presenting during the study period and described epidemiology, mechanisms and nature of the re-rupture; the second was a case-control study analysing differences between patients with primary Achilles tendon rupture during the study period, who did, or did not, go on to develop re-rupture, with minimum review period of 1.5 years. RESULTS Seven hundred and eighty-three patients (567 males, 216 females) attended with primary Achilles tendon rupture and 48 patients (41 males, 7 females) with Achilles tendon re-rupture. Median time to re-rupture was 98.5 days (IQR 82-122.5), but 8/48 re-ruptures occurred late (range 3 to 50 years) after primary Achilles tendon rupture. Males were affected more commonly (OR = 7.40, 95% CI 0.91-60.15; p = 0.034). Mean Achilles tendon re-rupture incidence was 0.94/100,000/year for all ages and 1.16/100,000/year for adults (≥ 18 years). Age distribution was bimodal for both primary Achilles tendon rupture and re-rupture, peaking in the fifth decade, with secondary peaks in older age. Incidence of re-rupture was higher in less socioeconomically deprived sub-populations (OR = 2.01, 95%CI 1.01-3.97, p = 0.04). The majority of re-ruptures were low-energy injuries. Greater risk of re-rupture was noted for patients with primary rupture aged < 45 years [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.96; p = 0.037] and those treated with traditional cast immobilisation (aOR 2.20; p = 0.050). CONCLUSION The epidemiology of Achilles tendon re-rupture is described and known trends (e.g. male predilection) are confirmed, while other novel findings are described, including incidence of a small but significant number of late re-ruptures, occurring years after the primary injury and an increased incidence of re-rupture in less socioeconomically deprived patients. Younger age and traditional immobilising cast treatment of primary Achilles tendon rupture were independently associated with Achilles tendon re-rupture. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Kotelnikov GP, Kim YD, Shitikov DS, Pankratov AS, Knyazev NA. [Method of surgical treatment of patients with a chronic rupture of the Achilles tendon]. Khirurgiia (Mosk) 2022:38-44. [PMID: 35146998 DOI: 10.17116/hirurgia202202138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To improve treatment outcomes in patients with long-standing Achilles tendon ruptures with severe diastasis and dysfunction of the calf muscle via the use of a new method of surgical treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS The authors proposed a new method of Achilles tendon repair for diastasis from 5 to 10 cm. This technique consists in elimination of diastasis with a tendon of the long peroneal muscle on the distal base. Surgical stages are described. The authors also report a patient with long-standing Achilles tendon rupture. Surgical treatment and postoperative outcomes are described. RESULTS Postoperative outcomes were assessed in 23 patients. The control group consisted of 21 patients who underwent reconstruction according to Chernavsky's and Krasnov's methods. Assessment was carried out using clinical and biomechanical methods. The authors analyzed gait asymmetry and functional myography data. Their data indicate the advantage of treatment in the main group.
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Affiliation(s)
- G P Kotelnikov
- Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russian Federation
| | - Yu D Kim
- Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia Samara State Medical University Clinics, Samara, Russia
| | - D S Shitikov
- Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russian Federation
| | - A S Pankratov
- Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia Samara State Medical University Clinics, Samara, Russia
| | - N A Knyazev
- Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russian Federation
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Guerra S, Lambe K, Manolova G, Sadler E, Sheehan KJ. Multidisciplinary team healthcare professionals' perceptions of current and optimal acute rehabilitation, a hip fracture example A UK qualitative interview study informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277986. [PMID: 36399456 PMCID: PMC9674178 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand multidisciplinary team healthcare professionals' perceptions of current and optimal provision of acute rehabilitation, perceived facilitators and barriers to implementation, and their implications for patient recovery, using hip fracture as an example. METHODS A qualitative design was adopted using semi-structured telephone interviews with 20 members of the acute multidisciplinary healthcare team (occupational therapists, physiotherapists, physicians, nurses) working on orthopaedic wards at 15 different hospitals across the UK. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, anonymised, and then thematically analysed drawing on the Theoretical Domains Framework to enhance our understanding of the findings. RESULTS We identified four themes: conceptualising a model of rehabilitative practice, which reflected the perceived variability of rehabilitation models, along with facilitators and common patient and organisational barriers for optimal rehabilitation; competing professional and organisational goals, which highlighted the reported incompatibility between organisational goals and person-centred care shaping rehabilitation practices, particularly for more vulnerable patients; engaging teams in collaborative practice, which related to the expressed need to work well with all members of the multidisciplinary team to achieve the same person-centred goals and share rehabilitation practices; and engaging patients and their carers, highlighting the importance of their involvement to achieve a holistic and collaborative approach to rehabilitation in the acute setting. Barriers and facilitators within themes were underpinned by the lack or presence of adequate ways of communicating with patients, carers, and multidisciplinary team members; resources (e.g. equipment, staffing, group classes), and support from people in leadership positions such as management and senior staff. CONCLUSIONS Cornerstones of optimal acute rehabilitation are effective communication and collaborative practices between the multidisciplinary team, patients and carers. Supportive management and leadership are central to optimise these processes. Organisational constraints are the most commonly perceived barrier to delivering effective rehabilitation in hospital settings, which exacerbate silo working and limited patient engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanny Guerra
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kate Lambe
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gergana Manolova
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Euan Sadler
- Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, and Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Katie J. Sheehan
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Carmont MR, Brorsson A, Barfod KW, Ginder L, Littlehales J, Karlsson J, Nilsson-Helander K. The reliability, reproducibility and utilization of the radiographic Achilles Tendon Loading Angle in the management of Achilles Tendon rupture. Foot Ankle Surg 2021; 27:760-766. [PMID: 33059973 DOI: 10.1016/j.fas.2020.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During management of Achilles tendon rupture, determination of tendon-end approximation, either clinically or by ultrasound is difficult, following brace application of during loading. The Radiographic Achilles Tendon Loading Angle (RadATLA) is proposed as a method of measuring ankle position whilst loading in a brace during the management of Achilles tendon rupture. This study aims to determine the reliability and reproducibility of the RadATLA. METHODS A loaded true lateral ankle radiograph including the fifth metatarsal head was taken when wearing a brace at the 6-week time point in 18 patients (19 ankles). following Achilles tendon repair or reconstruction. The RadATLA was compared with the Tibio-talar angle, other radiographic and clinical measures used to quantify foot and ankle position during the first 6 weeks of early rehabilitation in a resting position and during loading. RESULTS The intra-rater reliability of both angles was found to be good (>0.8). The RadATLA was found to have an excellent intra-rater reliability with Intra-class correlation of (ICC) 0.992-0.996 (95%CI 0.889-0.999), standard error of the measurement (SEM) 1.03-3.65 and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) 2.86-10.12. The inter-rater reliability was good with ICC of 0.798-0.969 (95%CI-0.03 to 0.964), SEM 2.9-7.6, and MDC 8.1-20.9. The RadATLA loaded at 6 weeks in all patients was at mean (SD) (range) 41.9˚ (16.5), (18.5-75.9). There was a significant difference between the patients in the Repair group compared with patients in the Reconstruction group both in RadATLA loaded at 6 weeks: 35.6˚ (11.2), (18.5-56.5) versus 55.5˚ (19), (20-75.9), (p = 0.01). The amount loaded in all patients was at mean (SD) (range) 29.2Kg (17.7), (2-56) and the percentage Body Weight was 30.7% (19), (2.1-63.2). There were no differences between the groups neither in amount loaded nor in percentage Body weight (p = 0.614-0.651). CONCLUSIONS The RadATLA is a reliable and reproducible angle and can be used to determine the position of the ankle, when loaded in a brace during rehabilitation following Achilles tendon rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Carmont
- The Department of Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgery, Princess Royal Hospital, Shrewsbury & Telford Hospital NHS Trust, Shropshire, United Kingdom; The Department of Orthopaedics, Institute of Clinical Sciences at Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sweden.
| | - Annelie Brorsson
- The Department of Orthopaedics, Institute of Clinical Sciences at Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sweden
| | - Kristoffer Weisskirchner Barfod
- Sports Orthopaedic Research Center-Copenhagen (SORC-C), Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital, Amager-Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Laurence Ginder
- The Department of Radiology & Imaging, Princess Royal Hospital, Shrewsbury & Telford Hospital NHS Trust, Shropshire, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Littlehales
- The Department of Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgery, Princess Royal Hospital, Shrewsbury & Telford Hospital NHS Trust, Shropshire, United Kingdom
| | - Jón Karlsson
- The Department of Orthopaedics, Institute of Clinical Sciences at Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sweden
| | - Katarina Nilsson-Helander
- The Department of Orthopaedics, Institute of Clinical Sciences at Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sweden
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Julies E, Williams T, Hall S. The Surgical Care Practitioner role in Achilles tendon re-rupture: A case study. J Perioper Pract 2021; 31:454-462. [PMID: 34478332 DOI: 10.1177/17504589211002377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The value of a Surgical Care Practitioner to an orthopaedic team is demonstrated in this case study of a patient who presented with a re-ruptured Achilles tendon. It highlights the role the practitioner plays in the patient journey and illustrates it's value throughout the clinical course from consultation through to discharge. The Surgical Care Practitioner, as a member of the extended surgical team can help to explain the diagnosis and associated treatment options, facilitate informed consent and provide expert procedural assistance to the surgeon. A Surgical Care Practitioner is ideally placed to answer patient queries and aid in rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elda Julies
- Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust, Colchester, UK
| | - Tim Williams
- Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust, Colchester, UK
| | - Susan Hall
- Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
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Costa ML, Achten J, Wagland S, Marian IR, Maredza M, Schlüssel MM, Liew AS, Parsons NR, Dutton SJ, Kearney RS, Lamb SE, Ollivere B, Petrou S. Plaster cast versus functional bracing for Achilles tendon rupture: the UKSTAR RCT. Health Technol Assess 2021; 24:1-86. [PMID: 32068531 DOI: 10.3310/hta24080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achilles tendon rupture affects > 11,000 people each year in the UK, leading to prolonged periods away from work, sports and social activities. Traditionally, the ruptured tendon is held still in a plaster cast for ≥ 8 weeks. Functional bracing is an alternative treatment that allows patients to mobilise earlier, but there is little evidence about how bracing affects patients' recovery. OBJECTIVES To measure the Achilles Tendon Rupture Score, quality of life, complications and resource use of patients receiving non-operative treatment for an Achilles tendon rupture treated with plaster cast compared with those treated with functional bracing. DESIGN This was a multicentre, randomised, pragmatic, two-group superiority trial. SETTING The setting was 39 NHS hospitals. PARTICIPANTS A total of 540 adult patients treated non-operatively for Achilles tendon rupture were randomised from July 2016 to May 2018. Exclusion criteria included presenting after 14 days, having had previous rupture and being unable to complete questionnaires. INTERVENTIONS A total of 266 participants had a plaster cast applied, with their toes initially pointing to the floor. The cast was changed over 8 weeks to bring the foot into a walking position. A total of 274 patients had a functional brace that facilitated immediate weight-bearing. The foot position was adjusted within the brace over the same 8-week period. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Achilles Tendon Rupture Score is patient reported and assesses symptoms and physical activity related to the Achilles tendon (score 0-100, with 100 being the best possible outcome). The secondary outcomes were quality of life, complications and resource use at 8 weeks and at 3, 6 and 9 months. RESULTS Participants had a mean age of 48.7 years, were predominantly male (79%) and had ruptured their tendon during sports (70%). Over 93% of participants completed follow-up. There was no statistically significant difference in Achilles Tendon Rupture Score at 9 months post injury (-1.38, 95% confidence interval -4.9 to 2.1). There was a statistically significant difference in Achilles Tendon Rupture Score at 8 weeks post injury in favour of the functional brace group (5.53, 95% confidence interval 2.0 to 9.1), but not at 3 or 6 months post injury. Quality of life showed the same pattern, with a statistically significant difference at 8 weeks post injury but not at later time points. Complication profiles were similar in both groups. Re-rupture of the tendon occurred 17 times in the plaster cast group and 13 times in the functional brace group. There was no difference in resource use. CONCLUSIONS This trial provides strong evidence that early weight-bearing in a functional brace provides similar outcomes to traditional plaster casting and is safe for patients receiving non-operative treatment of Achilles tendon rupture. The probability that functional bracing is cost-effective exceeds 95% for the base-case imputed analysis, assuming a cost-effectiveness threshold of £20,000 per quality-adjusted life-year. On average, functional brace is associated with lower costs (-£103, 95% confidence interval -£290 to £84) and more quality-adjusted life-years (0.015, 95% confidence interval -0.0013 to 0.030) than plaster cast. LIMITATIONS Some patients declined to participate in the trial, but only a small proportion of these declined because they had a preference for one treatment or another. Overall, 58% of eligible patients agreed to participate, so the participants are broadly representative of the population under investigation. FUTURE WORK Although the UK Study of Tendo Achilles Rehabilitation provides guidance with regard to early management, rehabilitation following Achilles tendon rupture is prolonged and further research is required to define the optimal mode of rehabilitation after the initial cast/brace has been removed. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN62639639. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 8. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew L Costa
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Juul Achten
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Susan Wagland
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ioana R Marian
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mandy Maredza
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Michael Maia Schlüssel
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Anna S Liew
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nick R Parsons
- Statistics and Epidemiology Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Susan J Dutton
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rebecca S Kearney
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Sarah E Lamb
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Benjamin Ollivere
- Division of Rheumatology, Orthopaedics and Dermatology, School of Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre Nottingham, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Stavros Petrou
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.,Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Kotelnikov GP, Ardatov SV, Kim YD, Shitikov DS. [A new method of surgical treatment of patients with chronic distal Achilles tendon rupture]. Khirurgiia (Mosk) 2021:62-68. [PMID: 33395514 DOI: 10.17116/hirurgia202101162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To improve postoperative outcomes in patients with distal Achilles tendon rupture by using of a new method of surgical treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS The authors proposed a new method to restore the Achilles tendon for its distal rupture (within 2 cm from attachment to the calcaneus). This approach implies forming a canal in the calcaneus and minimally invasive harvesting of the plantar tendon. At the next stage, the plantar tendon is passed through the canal of the calcaneus in U-shaped fashion and proximal part of Achilles tendon with maximum approximation of its fragments and imposing of interrupted sutures on the plantar and Achilles tendons to hold the position. The end of plantar tendon is used to reinforce damaged area. The schemes and surgical stages are shown in the figures. We reported a patient with distal Achilles tendon rupture and postoperative outcome. RESULTS An above-mentioned approach was applied in 26 patients. The control group consisted of 21 patients who underwent recovery with anchor fixers. Early and long-term postoperative results, as well as adverse events were analyzed in both groups. Biomechanical parameters of gait were evaluated from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine using podography and functional myography. We confirmed an advantage of treatment in the main group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - S V Ardatov
- Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russia
| | - Yu D Kim
- Samara State Medical University, Samara, Russia
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Pękala PA, Drzymała A, Kaythampillai L, Skinningsrud B, Mizia E, Rok T, Wojciechowski W, Tomaszewski KA. The influence of aging on the insertion of the Achilles tendon: A magnetic resonance study. Clin Anat 2020; 33:545-551. [DOI: 10.1002/ca.23431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Przemysław A. Pękala
- International Evidence‐Based Anatomy Working Group Kraków Poland
- Department of AnatomyJagiellonian University Medical College Kraków Poland
| | - Anna Drzymała
- Department of OrthopedicsChildren's University Hospital of Kraków Poland
| | | | - Bendik Skinningsrud
- International Evidence‐Based Anatomy Working Group Kraków Poland
- Department of AnatomyJagiellonian University Medical College Kraków Poland
| | - Ewa Mizia
- International Evidence‐Based Anatomy Working Group Kraków Poland
| | - Tomasz Rok
- Department of BiophysicsJagiellonian University Medical College Kraków Poland
| | - Wadim Wojciechowski
- Department of RadiologyJagiellonian University Medical College Kraków Poland
- Department of RadiologyComarch Healthcare S.A. Kraków Poland
| | - Krzysztof A. Tomaszewski
- Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesAndrzej Frycz Modrzewski Kraków University Kraków Poland
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryScanmed St. Raphael Hospital Kraków Poland
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Costa ML, Achten J, Marian IR, Dutton SJ, Lamb SE, Ollivere B, Maredza M, Petrou S, Kearney RS. Plaster cast versus functional brace for non-surgical treatment of Achilles tendon rupture (UKSTAR): a multicentre randomised controlled trial and economic evaluation. Lancet 2020; 395:441-448. [PMID: 32035553 PMCID: PMC7016510 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(19)32942-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with Achilles tendon rupture who have non-operative treatment have traditionally been treated with immobilisation of the tendon in plaster casts for several weeks. Functional bracing is an alternative non-operative treatment that allows earlier mobilisation, but evidence on its effectiveness and safety is scarce. The aim of the UKSTAR trial was to compare functional and quality-of-life outcomes and resource use in patients treated non-operatively with plaster cast versus functional brace. METHODS UKSTAR was a pragmatic, superiority, multicentre, randomised controlled trial done at 39 hospitals in the UK. Patients (aged ≥16 years) who were being treated non-operatively for a primary Achilles tendon rupture at the participating centres were potentially eligible. The exclusion criteria were presenting more than 14 days after injury, previous rupture of the same Achilles tendon, or being unable to complete the questionnaires. Eligible participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive a plaster cast or functional brace using a centralised web-based system. Because the interventions were clearly visible, neither patients nor clinicians could be masked. Participants wore the intervention for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was patient-reported Achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS) at 9 months, analysed in the modified intention-to-treat population (all patients in the groups to which they were allocated, excluding participants who withdrew or died before providing any outcome data). The main safety outcome was the incidence of tendon re-rupture. Resource use was recorded from a health and personal social care perspective. The trial is registered with ISRCTN, ISRCTN62639639. FINDINGS Between Aug 15, 2016, and May 31, 2018, 1451 patients were screened, of whom 540 participants (mean age 48·7 years, 79% male) were randomly allocated to receive plaster cast (n=266) or functional brace (n=274). 527 (98%) of 540 were included in the modified intention-to-treat population, and 13 (2%) were excluded because they withdrew or died before providing any outcome data. There was no difference in ATRS at 9 months post injury (cast group n=244, mean ATRS 74∙4 [SD 19∙8]; functional brace group n=259, ATRS 72∙8 [20∙4]; adjusted mean difference -1∙38 [95% CI -4∙9 to 2∙1], p=0·44). There was no difference in the rate of re-rupture of the tendon (17 [6%] of 266 in the plaster cast group vs 13 [5%] of 274 in the functional brace group, p=0·40). The mean total health and personal social care cost was £1181 for the plaster cast group and £1078 for the functional bract group (mean between-group difference -£103 [95% CI -289 to 84]). INTERPRETATION Traditional plaster casting was not found to be superior to early weight-bearing in a functional brace, as measured by ATRS, in the management of patients treated non-surgically for Achilles tendon rupture. Clinicians may consider the use of early weight-bearing in a functional brace as a safe and cost-effective alternative to plaster casting. FUNDING UK National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment Programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew L Costa
- Oxford Trauma, Nuffield Department of Rheumatology, Musculoskeletal and Orthopaedic Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Juul Achten
- Oxford Trauma, Nuffield Department of Rheumatology, Musculoskeletal and Orthopaedic Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ioana R Marian
- Oxford Clinical Trials Research Unit, Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Rheumatology, Musculoskeletal and Orthopaedic Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Susan J Dutton
- Oxford Clinical Trials Research Unit, Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Rheumatology, Musculoskeletal and Orthopaedic Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sarah E Lamb
- Oxford Trauma, Nuffield Department of Rheumatology, Musculoskeletal and Orthopaedic Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Benjamin Ollivere
- Division of Rheumatology, Orthopaedics and Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Mandy Maredza
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Stavros Petrou
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK; Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Dams OC, van den Akker-Scheek I, Diercks RL, Wendt KW, Zwerver J, Reininga IHF. Surveying the management of Achilles tendon ruptures in the Netherlands: lack of consensus and need for treatment guidelines. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2019; 27:2754-2764. [PMID: 29971520 PMCID: PMC6706364 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-018-5049-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to describe and analyse usual care of Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) by orthopaedic surgeons and trauma surgeons in the Netherlands. METHODS A nationwide online survey of ATR management was sent to all consultant orthopaedic and trauma surgeons in the Netherlands, requesting participation of those involved in ATR management. Data on individual characteristics and the entire ATR management (from diagnosis to rehabilitation) were gathered. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% agreement on an answer. RESULTS A total of 91 responses (70 orthopaedic surgeons and 21 trauma surgeons) were analysed. There was consensus on the importance of the physical examination in terms of diagnosis (> 90%) and a lack of consensus on diagnostic imaging (ultrasound/MRI). There was consensus that non-surgical treatment is preferred for sedentary and systemically diseased patients and surgery for patients who are younger and athletic and present with larger tendon gap sizes. There was consensus on most of the non-surgical methods used: initial immobilisation in plaster cast with the foot in equinus position (90%) and its gradual regression (82%) every 2 weeks (85%). Only length of immobilisation lacked consensus. Surgery was generally preferred, but there was a lack of consensus on the entire followed protocol. Orthopaedic and trauma surgeons differed significantly on their surgical (p = 0.001) and suturing techniques (p = 0.002) and methods of postoperative immobilisation (p < 0.001). Orthopaedic surgeons employed open repair and Bunnell sutures more often, whereas trauma surgeons used minimally invasive approaches and bone anchors. Rehabilitation methods and advised time until weight-bearing and return to sport varied. Orthopaedic surgeons advised a significantly longer time until return to sport after both non-surgical treatment (p = 0.001) and surgery (p = 0.002) than trauma surgeons. CONCLUSION This is the first study to describe the entire ATR management. The results show a lack of consensus and wide variation in management of ATRs in the Netherlands. This study shows that especially the methods of the perioperative and rehabilitation phases were inconclusive and differed between orthopaedic and trauma surgeons. Further research into optimal ATR management regimens is recommended. In addition, to achieve uniformity in management more multidisciplinary collaboration between Dutch and international surgeons treating ATRs is needed. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Cross-sectional survey, Level V.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier C. Dams
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Sport and Exercise Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Inge van den Akker-Scheek
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Sport and Exercise Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands ,0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Orthopaedics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ron L. Diercks
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Orthopaedics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Klaus W. Wendt
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Trauma Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes Zwerver
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Sport and Exercise Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Inge H. F. Reininga
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Trauma Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
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Kotelnikov GP, Chernov AP, Ardatov SV, Kim YD, Shitikov DS. [New surgical method for chronic rupture of the Achilles tendon]. Khirurgiia (Mosk) 2018:91-95. [PMID: 30560852 DOI: 10.17116/hirurgia201812191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM To improve the outcomes in patients with chronic ruptures of the Achilles tendon followed by advanced diastase and reduced function of the gastrocnemius muscle by using of new surgical method. MATERIAL AND METHODS The authors proposed a new method of Achilles tendon repair for diastase over 10 cm. It imposes transposition of the tendons of short fibular muscle and posterior tibial muscle. Schemes and stages of surgery are presented in figures. The authors described clinical example of patient with chronic rupture of the Achilles tendon, illustrations of surgical stages and the outcome. RESULTS New surgical approach was applied in 16 patients. The control group consisted of 21 patients who underwent repair by Chernavsky, Krasnov. Clinical and biomechanical methods were used for evaluation. Functional myography and podography to assess the asymmetry of gait were performed. Our data confirmed the advantage of new approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- G P Kotelnikov
- Samara State Medical University of Healthcare Ministry of the Russia, Samara, Russia
| | - A P Chernov
- Samara State Medical University of Healthcare Ministry of the Russia, Samara, Russia
| | - S V Ardatov
- Samara State Medical University of Healthcare Ministry of the Russia, Samara, Russia
| | - Yu D Kim
- Samara State Medical University of Healthcare Ministry of the Russia, Samara, Russia
| | - D S Shitikov
- Samara State Medical University of Healthcare Ministry of the Russia, Samara, Russia
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Development of an accelerated functional rehabilitation protocol following minimal invasive Achilles tendon repair. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2018; 26:846-853. [PMID: 26410099 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-015-3795-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Surgical repair after acute Achilles tendon rupture leads to lower re-rupture rates than non-surgical treatment. After open repair, early functional rehabilitation improves outcome, but there are risks of infection and poor wound healing. Minimal invasive surgery reduces these risks; however, there are concerns about its stability. Consequently, physicians may have reservations about adopting functional rehabilitation. There is still no consensus about the post-operative treatment after minimal invasive repair. The aim of this study was to define the most effective and safe post-operative rehabilitation protocol following minimal invasive repair. METHODS A systematic literature search in Embase, MEDLINE and Cochrane Library for prospective trials reporting on early functional rehabilitation after minimal invasive repair was performed. Seven studies were included. RESULTS One randomized controlled trail, one prospective comparative and five prospective non-comparative studies were identified. Four studies performed full weight bearing, all demonstrating good functional results, an early return to work/sports and high satisfaction. One study allowed early mobilization leading to excellent subjective and objective results. The only randomized controlled trial performed the most accelerated protocol demonstrating a superior functional outcome and fewer complications after immediate full weight bearing combined with free ankle mobilization. The non-comparative study reported high satisfaction, good functional results and an early return to work/sports following combined treatment. CONCLUSION Immediate weight bearing in a functional brace, together with early mobilization, is safe and has superior outcome following minimally invasive repair of Achilles tendon rupture. Our recommended treatment protocol provides quality assurance for the patient and reliability for the attending physician. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE II.
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