THE ROLE OF ULTRASOUND IN PREDICTING OUTCOMES OF NON-OPERATIVELY TREATED ACHILLES TENDON RUPTURES

The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a relationship between ultrasound measured gap size and functional outcomes in non-operatively treated achilles tendon ruptures.Patients who presented with complete achilles tendon ruptures were prospectively randomised to operative or non-operative treatment groups and followed over a one year period. The non-operative patients were selected and reassessed at three months, six months and one year. Patients were included if seen within seven days of their injury and had ultrasound confirmation of a complete tear. Non-operative treatment consisted of a functional bracing protocol with an aircast boot. Ultrasound measures included tear location and gap size in neutral, dorsiflexion, and plantar flexion of the ankle. Outcome measures were re-rupture rates, complications, range of motion, calf circumference, strength, and functional outcome scores.Twenty-five patients were included with complete data. The mean plantar flexion gap was 5.6(+/−7.5mm). The me...