[Epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic characteristics of Achilles tendon rupture].

Abstract

Introduction: The rupture of the Achilles tendon is one of the most frequent of the lower limb, the increase in its incidence invites to evaluate its associated characteristics that act as triggers or as risk factors.

Methods: Descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional study, based on clinical history data, using mean, standard deviation and percentages.

Results: We evaluated 49 patients: males 83.7%, administrative profession 46.9%, sport injury 61.2% (soccer 38.8%). 75.5% were acute injuries, affecting the left tendon (57.1%). The most referred symptom is sudden pain (95.9%) and the most common sign is Thompson's (89.8%). Ultrasonography was used in 42.9%. 95.5% received treatment by open surgery and spinal anesthesia 85.1%. Intraoperatively they reported complete rupture 95.7%, at 2-5 cm insertion 66%, 98% of them had no associated injuries. The repair was simple tenorrhaphy with Kessler's point (51%) and Vycril as suture material (95.7%). Immobilization was performed with warm-pedium plaster (98%) for a period of 6-8 weeks (91.9%). Surgical waiting was 3.6 days and hospital stay 4.9 days.

Conclusions: Achilles tendon rupture occurred more frequently in sedentary males between 29-48 years, acute presentation in sports activity, affecting the left tendon. Most were complete ruptures located between 2-5 cm from its insertion, performing simple tenorrhaphy.