A COMBINED OPEN AND PERCUTANEOUS TECHNIQUE FOR REPAIR OF TENDO ACHILLIS - COMPARISON WITH OPEN REPAIR

A combined open and percutaneous operative technique has been devised for repair of tendo Achillis. This minimises postoperative scarring. W e compared the long-term results of 12 patients treated by this method with the results of 10 who had undergone an open repair. The combined open and percutaneous repair gave significantly better relief of symp toms during everyday activities (p < 0.05), better single-limb hopping (p < 0.02) and a greater chance of returning to sport (p < 0.01). The re were no significant differences between the two treatments as regar ds the active range of ankle motion, calf circumference or the ability to stand on tiptoe. The new technique gave better cosmetic results.