Oval Forceps Assisted with Small Incision for Minimally Invasive Treatment of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture

Abstract Purpose: To review the clinical outcomes of treatment acute Achilles tendon rupture using oval forceps assisted with small incision.Methods: This was a retrospective study of 23 patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture treated with this technique. Distance from calcaneal insertion to rupture site and the operation time were recorded. During follow-up, all the occurrence of complications was recorded. The AOFAS score and the ROM of the repaired ankle joint were recorded at 3 and 6 months.Results: All patients were followed up for 7-15 months. There have no cases of Achilles tendon re-rupture and sural nerve injury were found. All incisions healed by first intention, except for one case of delayed suture knot irritation. The AOFAS score was 82–100 (median, 92) at 3 months and 92–100 (median, 98) at 6 months. The 3-month ROM was 28–37, and the 6-month ROM was 36–49.Conclusion: The technique of oval forceps assisted with small incision for minimally invasive treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture is a safe, reliable, and have an extremely low complication rate. Furthermore, this technique is easy to learn, utilizes simple instruments, and is cost-effective, making this technique an attractive alternative to traditional techniques.