Case series on bioinductive collagen scaffold augmented tendon repair for acute Achilles tendon ruptures with background tendinopathy

This study investigates the use of a bioinductive collagen scaffold patch to enhance the surgical repair of “degenerative” Achilles tendon ruptures in individuals with pre-existing tendinopathy. The aim is to improve tendon healing quality and enhance clinical function. A retrospective case series of patients with acute Achilles tendon ruptures and pre-existing tendinopathy who underwent surgical repair augmented with a collagen implant was analyzed. A mini-open surgical repair was performed using Krakow locking sutures with the augmentation of a collagen patch. Standardized rehabilitation protocols were followed, and participants were followed up for at least 6 months post-surgery. Nine participants were included in the study. No major complications, including re-ruptures, were reported within six months of surgery. Statistically significant improvements were observed in foot and ankle outcome scores. The Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment – Achilles score also showed progressive improvement. The use of a bioinductive collagen patch augmentation in patients with degenerative Achilles tendon rupture appears to be safe and feasible. However, the study's limitations include its retrospective nature and small sample size. Future prospective studies with a control group are needed to provide more comprehensive insights into the efficacy of this surgical procedure. This is the first published case series utilizing this novel bioinductive collagen patch to augment Achilles tendon repairs. These preliminarily positive results on improving the surgical management and outcomes of individuals with this challenging condition of tendinopathy complicated Achilles ruptures warrant further research in this area.