Treatment of the Chronic Achilles Tendon Rupture by Lindholm Method

Lee, Ho Jin; Chu, In Tak; Choi, Seong Pil

Abstract

PURPOSE: This retrospective study was designed to evaluate the treatment results of chronic Achilles tendon rupture by Lindholm method.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Between 2002 and 2006, we performed the reconstruction of the Achilles tendon by using of the gatrocnemius-sloeus fascia known as Lindholm method. Ten cases of ten patients were enrolled in this study (8 men and 2 women). The mean age of the patients at the time of operation was 49 years (range, 32~66 years). The mean follow-up duration was 15.2 months (range, 12~19 months). The retrospective review of the clinical history, physical examination, the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score were conducted.
RESULTS
The mean AOFAS score before surgery was 74.10+/-2.56 and that of the latest follow-up was 90.60+/-5.72. The excellent results were six and good results were four patients. Eight patients were normal triceps power and the others were good. The average of heel to floor distance was 4.5 mm less in the operated legs than the contralateral ones in each patient, but there was no significant difference (p>005). The average of calf muscle circumference in the mid-leg was 7.5 mm less in the operated legs than the contralateral ones and there was significant difference (p<0.05). The active range of motion of the ankles, mean plantarflexion was 40 degrees and dorsiflexion was 16.8 degrees in operated side. The contralateral side was 43 degrees in plantarflexion and 19 degrees in dorsiflexion. No case showed rerupture of the reconstructed Achilles tendon. One patient had the superficial wound infection which was treated successfully by antibiotic therapy.
CONCLUSION
It was suggested that the overall results of Lindholm method for the chronic Achilles tendon rupture indicated satisfactory outcomes