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- Talk
- 14/07/2021
- UK
Functional Outcome of Conservatively Managed Complete Achilles Tendon Ruptures Treated in a Functional Weight Bearing Orthosis
Description
In this presentation, Rajib Naskar discusses his research on the functional outcomes of conservative management for complete Achilles tendon ruptures treated with a functional weight-bearing orthosis. He begins by introducing the context of the study, noting that Achilles tendon ruptures occur at a rate of 21 per 100,000 per year, primarily affecting active men aged 40-50. Naskar examines the debates surrounding the management of these injuries, highlighting the traditional preference for surgical interventions due to lower re-rupture rates, despite associated complications such as infections and scarring.
Naskar contrasts this with conservative treatment methods, which have typically included using an equinus plaster, resulting in a higher re-rupture rate compared to surgical methods. However, recent advancements in functional orthosis designs have shown promising results. The aim of his study was to evaluate the effectiveness of conservative management using a functional orthosis, focusing on functional outcomes, re-rupture rates, and the ability of patients to return to sports.
His study included 41 patients, all treated conservatively after confirming gaps of less than 5 centimeters in their tendon injuries. After a year, results showed an 82.1% average ATRS score, a low re-rupture rate of 2%, and 66% of patients were able to return to their pre-injury activity levels. Additionally, he reports significant correlations between patient outcomes and calf muscle girth.
Naskar references recent studies that suggest conservative treatments can yield outcomes comparable to surgical options while avoiding the risks of surgery. He concludes that conservative management, especially using modern orthotic approaches, is effective for the majority of patients, recommending surgical options primarily for elite athletes or specific cases. The presentation emphasizes the potential for advancing conservative techniques in managing complete Achilles tendon ruptures.