Individualized Treatment of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture

Individualized Treatment for Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Based on Barfod's Ultrasonographic Length Measure - a Randomized Controlled Trial

To asses the functional outcome after individualized treatment of acute achilles tendon rupture. The treatment is individualizes on the basis of ultrasonographic status of tendon overlap and Barfod's Ultrasonographic length measure. Patients are allocated for operative treatment if there the tendon overlap is less than 25 % or the tendon is elongated with 7% or more compared to the healthy, contralateral achilles tendon.

The study includes two control groups of non-operative and operative treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Appointment in the Outpatients Department within 4 days of injury.
• Total Achilles tendon rupture.
• Initial treatment with split cast with the ankle in maximal plantar flexion must be started within 24 hours of injury.
• The patient must be expected to be able to attend rehabilitation and post-examinations.
• The patient must be able to speak and understand Danish.
• The patient must be able to give informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Rupture of the Achilles tendon either at the insertion on the calcaneus or at musculotendinous junction of the triceps surae.
• Previous rupture of the Achilles tendon in any of the two legs.
• Treated with Fluoroquinolones or corticosteroids within the last 6 months.
• In medical treatment of diabetes.
• Suffers from rheumatic disease.
• Other conditions prior to the injury resulting in reduced function of any of the two legs.
• Contra-indication for surgery: severe arthrosclerosis with no palpable pulse in the foot, broken skin in the Achilles region of the injured leg.
• Inability to lie in prone position on the operating table.
• Terminal illness or severe medical illness: ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) score higher than or equal to 3.