General Procedure Information
Achilles Tendon Repair
Achilles tendon rupture can be treated non-operatively or surgically. Whether repair is suitable depends on the rupture, activity goals, health and wound risks, and ability to follow the rehabilitation plan.
What Is It?
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel and supports push-off, running, jumping and tiptoe standing. Repair brings the torn ends together with sutures and may use an open or smaller-incision technique; each has different indications.
When Might It Be Considered?
These are common assessment considerations only; they do not mean that you are necessarily suitable for surgery or the procedure.
- A sudden “pop” or kicked sensation behind the calf followed by weak push-off, inability to tiptoe or walking difficulty needs prompt assessment
- Clinical examination confirms or strongly suggests an Achilles rupture
- The doctor has compared non-operative and surgical trade-offs involving re-rupture, wound, infection, nerve and rehabilitation demands
What Are the Alternatives?
- Non-operative care commonly includes a boot or cast, heel elevation, progressive movement and rehabilitation guided by the doctor/physiotherapist
- Surgery is not suitable for everyone; smoking, diabetes, wound or circulation issues and inability to follow rehabilitation affect the choice
General Assessment and Procedure Planning
The clinician confirms timing, rupture location, skin condition, neurovascular status, health risks and activity goals. The treating team explains anaesthetic, incision, post-operative immobilisation, weight bearing and physiotherapy.
Important
Possible Risks and Limitations
All surgery and invasive procedures carry risks. Your actual risk depends on your condition, the scope of the procedure, health and other factors. Your doctor will discuss this individually during informed consent.
- Infection, bleeding, delayed wound healing, nerve irritation or injury and blood clots
- Re-rupture, tendon scar or lengthening, reduced strength, stiffness and persistent pain
- Even after successful surgery, explosive strength and speed of return to sport vary with the injury and rehabilitation progress
General Recovery Approach
After repair, a boot or cast is used as directed, with progressive adjustment of ankle position, movement and weight bearing. Rehabilitation focuses on swelling, walking, ankle movement, calf strength, balance and return to sport; stretching or loading the tendon too early can affect healing.
When Should You Contact the Medical Team Promptly?
- Pain, swelling, redness or warmth becomes suddenly worse after surgery or injury
- Persistent wound bleeding or discharge, marked wound redness or swelling, fever, chills or feeling generally unwell
- New or worsening numbness, weakness, breathing difficulty, chest pain or marked calf pain/swelling
For severe illness, breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting or inability to travel safely, call 999 or attend an emergency department immediately.
Reference
American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society: Achilles Tendon Tear patient education
Would You Like to Discuss Which Treatment Direction May Be Suitable?
Book an orthopaedic assessment to discuss your symptoms, findings, lifestyle needs and treatment goals individually.