Local Tendon Transfers for Chronic Ruptures of the Achilles Tendon: A Systematic Review

Introduction: A rupture of the Achilles tendon with a delay in diagnosis or treatment for more than 6 weeks is considered a chronic tear. Local tendon transfer procedures can be used in chronic Achilles tendon ruptures. This study evaluated the outcome, return to sport, and complications of local tendon transfer in patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture. Material and methods: The present study was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Web of Science databases were accessed in November 2022. Results: Data were retrieved from 23 articles (463 patients, mean age 50.9 ± 13.5 years). The mean duration of the follow-up was 58.3 ± 76.8 months. The VAS improved by 1.8/10 (p = 0.4), the AOFAS by 33.4/100 (p < 0.0001), and the ATRS by 32.5/100 (p = 0.0001) points. Patients were able to return to sport after a mean of 19.6 ± 16.4 weeks. A total of 79% of patients were able to return to their previous activities. The rate of complications was 13.3%. Conclusions: The use of local tendon transfer for chronic Achilles tendon ruptures using the FHL or PB tendon resulted in good clinical outcomes and a reliable return to daily activities and sports. The rate of complications reflects the chronicity of the condition and the technical complexity of the procedure. Level of evidence: IV.