Chronic Achilis Tendon Rupture Reconstruction using the Abraham Pankovich Method

Abstract

Background: Achilles tendon is one of the most commonly ruptured tendons of the lower extremity. The treatment of chronically ruptured Achilles tendon is difficult due to several seasons. The optimal treatment of chronic Achilles tendon rupture is surgical repair with using various techniques.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and functional outcomes of chronic Achilles tendon rupture reconstruction via the Abraham Pankovich method.

Methodology: This was a prospective study of patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture hospitalized in Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Chittagong Medical College Hospital (CMCH) between January 2018 and May 2019. Patients who were not able to perform a single-limb heel rise were chosen. Ankle functional capacity was assessed using Hooker scale in all patients. The patients were evaluated on the basis of their capability to stand on tip toe on the affected limb and the time required to return to pre-injury daily activities.

Results: It has been evaluated 10 patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture. The mean follow-up time was 9 months (range, 6-12 months). The mean time to return to work and daily activity was 3 months. At the last follow-up visit, no patient had any limitation in the activities of daily living and the active and passive ankle range of motion was good. All patients were able to perform single-leg heel rises at the end of follow-up and the Hooker scores were excellent for 7 patients and satisfactory for 3 patients.

Conclusion: The reconstruction of chronic Achilles tendon ruptures via Abraham Pankovich technique is associated with good clinical and functional outcomes.

Journal of Science Foundation, July 2020;18(2):37-42