Achilles Tendon Elongation After Rupture Repair A Randomized Comparison of 2 Postoperative Regimens

BackgroundA few prospective controlled trials comparing early functional rehabilitation after Achilles tendon repair and non-operative immobilization have been reported.HypothesesThere is no difference in Achilles tendon elongation between early motion and immobilization after Achilles tendon repair. Tendon elongation does not correlate with the clinical outcome.Study DesignRandomized clinical trial; Level of evidence, 2.MethodsFifty patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture were randomized postoperatively to receive either early movement of the ankle between neutral and plantar flexion in a brace for 6 weeks or immobilization in tension using a below-knee cast with the ankle in a neutral position for 6 weeks. Full weightbearing was allowed after 3 weeks in both groups. Standardized radiographs to measure previously placed radiographic markers were taken on the first day postoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 weeks postoperatively, with the final radiograph a mean of 60 (SD, 6.4) weeks postoperatively. ...