What to Know About Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery

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Surgery to repair a damaged Achilles tendon is known as achilles tendon repair surgery.

The lower leg's Achilles tendon is a powerful, fibrous cord. It connects your calf muscles to your heel. Your body's largest tendon is that one. You can run, leap, and move about with its assistance.

The Achilles tendon may occasionally rupture or tear. This is typically caused by an abrupt, powerful force. It may take place during demanding physical activities. If you suddenly accelerate or pivot on one foot, it might happen. You run a higher risk of tearing a tendon if your foot turns outward too much. A ruptured Achilles tendon can make your heel hurt and swell. It's possible that you won't be able to lower your foot.

Furthermore, the Achilles tendon can deteriorate. It is sometimes referred to as tendinopathy or tendinitis. On the back of your heel and along your Achilles tendon, this may result in symptoms like pain and stiffness. The tendon is frequently stressed excessively and repeatedly as a result of this. It might be the result of repetitive strain on your tendon, particularly if you've been more active lately. Your risk of tendinopathy may be increased if your calf muscles are short.

An incision is created in the back of the calf during the procedure. The surgeon will suture the ruptured tendon back together. If the tendon is degenerated, the surgeon may cut away the degenerated portion and sew up the remaining tendon. The surgeon may replace all or a portion of your Achilles tendon if there is serious damage to a large portion of the tendon. A tendon removed from another area of your foot is used for this.

Achilles tendon repair surgery may occasionally be performed as a less invasive method. Instead of making one large incision, this is accomplished with several tiny ones. To assist with the repair, a special scope with a tiny camera and light might be used.

Why might I need Achilles tendon repair surgery?

If you tore your Achilles tendon, surgery might be necessary. In many cases of torn Achilles tendons, surgery is advised. However, in some circumstances, your doctor could suggest trying out other treatments first. These could include painkillers or a short-term cast to immobilize your leg. And if you have certain medical issues, your doctor might not recommend surgery. Diabetes and leg neuropathy are a couple of these.

If you have tendinopathy, you might also require surgery to repair your Achilles tendon. But tendinopathy may typically be treated with alternative methods. Resting your foot, applying ice and painkillers, and wearing a brace or other device to prevent your foot from moving are a few of them. Physical treatment may also be beneficial. After several months, if you are still experiencing discomfort, your doctor may suggest surgery.

Your ability to benefit from Achilles tendon surgery will depend on the nature of your issue. The risks and advantages of your choices can be discussed with your healthcare provider.

What are the risks of Achilles tendon repair surgery?

Every procedure carries some risk. Achilles tendon repair carries a number of risks, including excessive bleeding, nerve damage, infection, blood clot, problems with wound healing, calf weakness, complications from anesthesia, and ongoing foot and ankle pain.

Your personal risks may change depending on your age, the structure of the muscles and tendons in your foot and leg, your general health, and the type of surgery performed. Any worries you may have should be discussed with your healthcare provider. He or she can inform you of the risks that concern you the most.

What happens after Achilles tendon repair surgery?

After your surgery, a healthcare professional will keep an eye on you for a while. You'll probably have a splint on your ankle when you wake up. To prevent it from moving, do this. Surgery on the achilles tendon is frequently an outpatient operation. You can therefore return home that day.

Following surgery, you'll experience some pain, especially in the initial days. Your pain will be lessened with painkillers. As often as you can, keep your leg up. Swelling and pain may be lessened as a result. A high fever or ankle or calf pain that worsens should be immediately reported to your healthcare physician. You'll most likely need crutches after surgery. In order to keep your weight off your leg, do this.

You'll need to visit your doctor again about 10 days after your operation to get your stitches taken out. Your doctor may decide to switch your splint out for a cast at this point. If so, keep your cast dry by adhering to all recommendations. Or, in place of a cast, your doctor can recommend a unique removable boot.

You'll receive instructions from your doctor regarding when you can put weight on your leg. As you heal, he or she will instruct you on how to build up the muscles in your legs and ankles. Physical therapy can be necessary to aid with your recuperation.

Be sure to adhere to all medical professionals' advice regarding medications, wound care, and exercise. This will ensure that your procedure is successful.