Thanks to your Achilles tendon, you can walk, run, and jump. It allows for so much movement that brings your life joy. The Achilles tendon is very thick, strong, and is the longest tendon in the body. However, it is not immune to damage. The Achilles tendon can become damaged due to overuse or sudden pivots that can cause tearing.
If you suspect your Achilles tendon has become injured, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you have a torn Achilles tendon, it needs to be surgically repaired. In this article, we will talk about the three different techniques that a foot and ankle doctor can use in Achilles tendon repair surgery.
Repair Technique
This method involves suturing together the torn ends of the Achilles tendon in order to restore its normal length and strength. This is possible if the tendon is still in relatively good condition and the damage is minimal. This technique is typically used for small tears or ruptures that do not require additional tissue support from other structures such as tendons or ligaments. It may also be combined with other procedures such as debridement, which is the removal of damaged tissue.
Grafting Technique
If the Achilles tendon is severely damaged and requires intensive repair, the doctor may use a graft. This method involves using donor tissue from another part of your body, commonly another area of the foot, to replace damaged portions of the Achilles tendon. Grafts can help improve stability and strength, and reduce pain associated with chronic foot and ankle injuries, as it supports weakened areas along the ankle.
Lengthening Technique
For patients with a contracted Achilles tendon, due to medical conditions or certain lifestyle factors, the doctor may use a lengthening technique, which involves cutting through some portions of the Achilles tendon, so it can increase the range of motion of your ankle. This method may be combined with the grafting technique to further increase the tendon’s flexibility.
Achilles tendon repair surgery may involve one or more of the techniques mentioned above. Your foot and ankle surgeon will determine the best approach to use in your case that can help restore your function and mobility.
Foot and Ankle Surgeon for Achilles Tendon Repair in Warwick and Middletown, RI, and Fall River, MA
The board-certified podiatrists at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England have performed Achilles tendon repair numerous times. They are highly trained and experienced in minimally invasive techniques that improve surgical outcomes for patients. After surgery, physical therapy and rehabilitation follow, which we also guide our patients through until they make a complete recovery.
Achilles tendon injuries make life very difficult. Put your trust in our board-certified podiatrists and regain the full function of your ankle again. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, call our podiatry office nearest you or use our convenient online request form. We look forward to being your partner on the road to better podiatric health.
