Separation of tendon ends after suture of achilles tendon

Ten patients treated for an acute rupture of the achilles tendon were studied. During the operation a marker was attached to each tendon end. The postoperative separation of the markers was studied by repeated X-ray examinations. Despite immobilization a small initial separation was found during the first 4 days, followed by a period of no separation. After about 20 days a second separation started. No re-ruptures occurred. Both in the rabbit and in man a small initial separation of sutured tendon ends seemed to indicate an adequate tendon suture and therefore also a good tendon healing.