Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery

Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery

If you have a broken Achilles tendon in your foot, Achilles tendon repair can help you connect the ends of the broken tendon so you can start using your foot normally again. At OrthoBethesda, we have a team of specially trained and compassionate orthopedic surgeons who can perform Achilles tendon repair using the best tools, techniques and procedures for residents of Bethesda and its surrounding areas.

 

What Is Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery?

The Achilles tendon is a long cord in your lower leg that connects your heel to the muscles in your calf. It enables you to do athletic activities such as running, jumping, cycling and walking. This tendon can get torn from trauma, intense physical activity, a sudden turn or overuse. It may also degenerate due to aging.

A thorough physical examination and diagnosis always precede surgery. Your doctor will examine your leg to determine its strength and range of motion. Then, they will order some imaging tests such as an x-ray, CT scan or MRI to get a detailed view of the damaged Achilles tendon.

The surgery may be performed as a minimally invasive procedure using tiny incisions and a special instrument with a camera and light. But for severe damage, larger incisions and open surgery will be required.

Why Would You Need Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery?

If you tore your tendon while participating in sports, you might need an Achilles tendon surgery. Before recommending surgery, we may recommend more conservative treatment methods such as using ice, pain-relieving medication, wearing a brace and physical therapy.

What Happens During Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery?

Your orthopedic surgeon and a team of other healthcare professionals may perform Achilles tendon surgery in different ways. Typically, during the procedure:

  • You’ll receive spinal anesthesia, so you don’t feel pain below your waist.
  • Your vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature, will be monitored during the surgery.
  • Your surgeon will make an incision on your calf muscle to gain access to your tendon.
  • Your surgeon will take out damaged parts of the tendon and stitch the other components together.
  • Your doctor will use sutures to close the skin at the incision.

What Is Achilles Tendon Surgery Recovery Time?

Achilles tendon repair protocol and recovery time depend on the severity of the tendon’s damage. After 10 days, you’ll need to return to your doctor to remove the stitches. During this period, you’ll take pain-relieving medication, and your leg may be placed in a cast. You’ll need to treat any swelling with ice for a few days.

As you recover, your tendon and leg will get stronger. But you may have to wear walking boots for about six to 12 weeks. Your doctor and physical therapist will create an exercise program for you to increase mobility and strength.

Further Reading

How to Prevent Dance-Related Injuries

What to Wear and What Not to Wear During Surgery

 

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Contact OrthoBethesda to Discover If You Need Achilles Tendon Repair

If you have an injured tendon or you have severe pain at the back of your foot, contact us now by calling
(301) 530-1010 to book an appointment with one of our orthopedic surgeons. Our team of doctors and therapists is fully equipped to give you quick relief from pain while helping you regain the full strength and functioning of your leg and foot.