Flexor hallucis longus transfer versus turndown flaps augmented with flexor hallucis longus transfer in the repair of chronic Achilles tendon rupture

The Achilles tendon is the biggest tendon in the human body. However, it is also one of the most frequently ruptured tendons. Complete rupture commonly occurs at around one-and-a-half to two inches from the tendon ’s insertion to the calcaneus [1–3], corresponding to the “watershed” region of the tendon [4,5]. Achilles tendon ruptures are considered to be chronic after 4–6 weeks delay from the time of injury [1,6–8] and it is often due to misdiagnosis or a delay in seeking medical attention. Whils t there is a role for non-operative management through bracing and rehabilitation, these non-surgical management options of chronic Achilles tendon have less favourable outcomes [9,10].
Source: Foot and Ankle Surgery - Category: Orthopaedics Authors: Source Type: research