Percutaneous ultrasound-guided repair of Achilles tendon rupture: a cadaveric study and preliminary clinical report

Percutaneous repair is a safe and reliable method to restore continuity after acute Achilles tendon ruptures, with a lower incidence of wound complications than to open techniques. We describe a percutaneous ultrasound-guided surgical technique for acute Achilles tendon ruptures. Ultrasound guidance enables the tendon to be sutured without damaging the sural nerve or vessels. Following a cadaveric study in seven specimens, the technique was then used in 11 Achilles tendon tear patients. Ultrasound-guided repair of Achilles tendon ruptures is safe and reliable, and does not require skin incisions or a tourniquet. No re-ruptures nor sural nerve damage were recorded at the latest follow-up. Appropriately powered clinical studies are necessary to compare this closed technique with other percutaneous or minimally invasive techniques.