Whether the Extremity Is Dominant Affects the Outcome of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair?

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Musculoskeletal Injuries

Background:

• Acute Achilles tendon rupture (AATR) is a common injury in middle-aged athletes.
• Diagnosis and treatment of AATR present challenges.
• This study investigates AATR repair outcomes based on limb dominance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the functional outcomes of AATR repair.
• To compare outcomes between dominant and nondominant extremities.
• To assess the impact of limb dominance on AATR recovery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 28 patients (2020-2022) undergoing Krackow technique repair.
• Functional outcomes assessed at 2-year follow-up.
• Clinical scores, range of motion, calf circumference, and ultrasonography used for assessment.

Main Results:

• Superior clinical outcomes (Achilles tendon total rupture score) observed in the dominant limb (P = .001).
• Operated tendons showed increased thickness and length on ultrasonography without functional impairment.
• High success rate (85.7%) for return to sports at 5.82 months, with minor complications.

Conclusions:

• Limb dominance influences AATR repair outcomes, with the dominant extremity showing enhanced recovery.
• Surgical repair and rehabilitation are effective for active individuals, promoting early return to activity.
• The strategy minimizes re-rupture risks and supports an active lifestyle post-injury.