Tendon injuries about the foot and ankle in children

Sixty-four children with tendon injuries about the foot and ankle have been reviewed in order to present a plan of management when such injuries occur. One-third involved the tendo Achillis; the others were equally distributed between the dorsum and sole of the foot, and in only 12% was more than one tendon involved. Sensory nerves were frequently severed, but nearly all recovered completely after early repair. The results of immediate repair of tendons were good. When repair was delayed the results were less satisfactory, as severe deformities developed in the growing feet. Early exploration and surgical repair of selected tendons are recommended to avoid future disability.