Achilles Rupture Following a Debridement of the Achilles
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Alyssa Colon
CoPIs:
D. Wujciak, J. Garruto
College:
The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major:
Athletic Training
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
Nicole Lowy
Abstract:
An Achilles tendon rupture is a condition in which the Achilles tendon, which is a thick, strong cord-like structure located at the posterior ankle, tears or partially tears. The Achilles tendon is one of the strongest tendons in the human body and connects the calf muscles to the calcaneus. Re-rupture of the Achilles tendon is a serious complication of surgical or conservative treatment. The rate of re-rupture after operative treatment has been previously reported to be 1.7 - 5.6%, while the rate of re-rupture during conservative treatment is reported to be 11.7 - 20.8%. There are a number of complications that are associated with open surgical treatment for Achilles tendon ruptures, including wound detachment and re-rupture. Following surgery, the Achilles tendon is much less likely to rupture. The most common rupture of a tendon in the lower extremity is the full rupture of an Achilles tendon. Surgical or conservative treatment of the Achilles tendon should be avoided if possible due to the risk of re-rupture. Consequently, the athlete may have to discontinue his football career due to an Achilles rupture caused by debridement of the Achilles.