The Achilles tendon is the largest and most heavily loaded tendon in the body, connecting the muscle and heel. Its key role is to support and control movement of the foot and lower leg. Damage or rupture of the Achilles tendon can result in limited mobility, pain, and loss of the ability to walk normally. Repair of this tendon is critical to the patient's return to an active life.
The main goal of the surgery is to restore the functionality of the foot and lower leg. This is achieved by restoring the integrity of the tendon, its strength and elasticity. The surgery aims to reduce pain, restore mobility and prevent further damage.
After successful Achilles’ tendon repair surgery, patients can expect significant improvement in the functionality of the foot and lower leg. This includes increased mobility, reduced pain, and restoration of the ability to engage in vigorous physical activity.
When Is Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery Recommended?
Surgical intervention to repair the Achilles tendon may be recommended in a number of cases where an injury or rupture of the tendon has not responded to effective conservative treatment. Various factors can lead to surgery.
- Complete rupture of the tendon - as a result of injury or wear and tear. Especially if a nick is formed.
- Partial rupture of the tendon, when its structure is partially damaged, but integrity is maintained, surgery may also be recommended, especially if conservative treatment fails to improve the condition.
- The presence of chronic tendinopathy or degeneration of the Achilles tendon that does not respond to conservative treatments.
- If the Achilles tendon injury prevents the patient from walking normally, including climbing stairs or performing normal physical activities
- Repeated injury or recurrence of a tendon rupture after previous treatment.
If you are looking for a reliable clinic for Achilles’ tendon repair surgery, Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic is the ideal choice. Our leading, experienced podiatric surgeon, Alex Yanovskiy, will determine the nature and severity of the injury and consider other factors to determine if surgery is the best option for you.
Preparation for Surgery
Preparation for Achilles tendon repair surgery plays a key role in the successful outcome of surgery and subsequent recovery.
The first step is a consultation with a surgeon - examination, review of medical history, diagnostic tests, determination of the nature of the injury by X-ray or MRI images. The doctor will prescribe additional examination (blood tests and ECG) to determine the general condition and concomitant diseases.
Talk to your doctor about what medicines you are taking. Some of them may need to be stopped temporarily. If you are allergic to medicines or other substances, tell your doctor.
Before Achilles tendon surgery, it is important to follow certain restrictions and guidelines.
- Make the necessary preparations at home to facilitate mobility and self-care after surgery.
- A week before surgery, refrain from smoking and alcohol, such bad habits can slow down the healing process.
- Refrain from eating 6 to 8 hours before the procedure. This helps prevent the risk of aspiration (food entering the airway) during anesthesia.
- You can drink small amounts of water, but large amounts of fluid should be avoided.
- Shower before surgery to reduce the risk of infection.
Following these tips will help you prepare for surgery and maximize your recovery.
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The Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery Procedure
Achilles tendon repair can be performed using a variety of methods, including open and minimally invasive endoscopic percutaneous techniques - using endoscopy to visualize and repair the tendon through small incisions.
Stages of the operation
- Patient preparation: anesthesia induction depending on the method chosen (general anesthesia, local anesthesia or spinal anesthesia). The patient is placed in the supine or supine position to allow access to the Achilles tendon area.
- Access to the tendon: The surgeon makes an incision in the skin over the site of the injury, usually on the back of the lower leg near the heel. The size and location of the incision may vary depending on the individual patient and surgical tactics.
- Identification of the damaged area: careful assessment of the extent of the damage, determining the nature of the damage, including the completeness or partiality of the rupture, the presence of displacement or deformation.
- Removal of damaged tissue: removal of damaged areas of the tendon and associated tissue in preparation for tendon reconstruction or repair. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove bony growths or other abnormalities that interfere with normal tendon function.
- Reconstruction or repair of the tendon: through a variety of techniques, including suturing the torn edges using patient tissue, donor tissue, or synthetic materials.
- Wound closure and fixation: the surgeon close the skin incision with suture material (thread), surgical tape or special adhesives for tissue fixation. Plaster bandage or a special bandage can be used as additional fixation.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery time after Achilles tendon repair surgery can vary depending on the severity of the tendon injury, the age and general condition of the patient, and the type of surgery. In general, the rehabilitation period can take from 6 to 12 months.
Careful adherence to rehabilitation recommendations is critical for optimal healing and recovery.
The main stages of recovery:
Immobilization
For the first few weeks after surgery, you should keep your ankle immobilized (in a cast or boot) to protect the recovery process and allow the tendon to heal.
Once immobilization is no longer necessary, you will begin physical therapy.
Physical Therapy. Recommended exercises:
- stretching and strengthening the muscles of the lower leg and foot;
- balance and coordination exercises;
- Gradual increase in the load on the operated leg using special exercises and training;
- exercises to improve joint mobility and flexibility.
Care of the operated area:
- adherence to dressing changes and use of antiseptic agents;
- keep the wound clean and dry;
- avoid excessive strain on the operated leg;
- follow recommendations to gradually increase physical activity;
- on the doctor's recommendation, wear special orthopedic devices to support and protect the operated area;
- See your doctor regularly to assess your recovery.
By following these guidelines and communicating regularly with the doctor, the patient can ensure an effective and safe Achilles tendon repair.
Why Choose Our Clinic?
At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, we offer a comprehensive approach to Achilles tendon treatment based on:
- The expertise and skills of our specialists with years of experience in the surgical treatment of Achilles tendonitis;
- individualized approach to each case;
- using modern medical equipment and advanced technologies in the field of foot and lower leg surgery;
- A comprehensive approach to the recovery process.
When you choose Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, you can be assured of receiving the highest quality medical care and care to help you return to an active and healthy life. Make an appointment and trust your health to the professionals. Tel. (847) 298-3338, Des Plaines.