A case of 'second rupture' following open repair of a ruptured Achilles tendon

We present a case of Achilles tendon rupture in a 54-year-old man whilst rehabilitating following end-to-end open repair of an acute Achilles tendon rupture. Re-rupture following surgical repair of Achilles tendon is well known. This case however, is atypical as the second rupture occurred significantly proximal to the first rupture. To our knowledge this is the first time this has been described in the English literature. We have termed this incident a 'second rupture'. We describe the surgical technique used by the operating surgeon during open repair of this 'second rupture', involving a gastrocnemius flap turndown. This has lead to the patient making a good recovery, despite complications. This case report serves to inform surgeons of the existence of this type of Achilles tendon rupture, whilst considering possible aetiologies and suggesting a technique for repair of the injury.