What is Achilles Tendon Repair?
Achilles tendon repair restores continuity and strength to the tendon at the back of the ankle after an acute rupture or chronic degeneration. Techniques include:
- Open repair: Direct suture of torn ends through a small incision.
- Percutaneous/minimally invasive repair: Small punctures with suture-passing devices.
- Augmentation or reconstruction: Use of grafts or tendon transfers (e.g., FHL transfer) for chronic tears or poor tissue quality. Performed under regional or general anesthesia. Postoperative rehabilitation is crucial for optimal recovery.
What to expect after Achilles Tendon Repair?
- Short outpatient stay or one-night observation
- Immobilization in splint/boot with the foot pointed down (plantarflexion)
- Gradual weight-bearing progression per protocol over 6–8 weeks
- Pain, swelling, and calf tightness controlled with ice, elevation, and medication
- Stitches removed around 10–14 days
- Transition to physical therapy for range of motion, strength, and gait training
- Return to light work in 2–4 weeks (desk jobs); sports in 4–6 months depending on progress
- Watch for warning signs: increasing pain, fever, wound drainage, calf pain/swelling
