Tendon Injury

Patients who sustain an Achilles tendon rupture that is left untreated or fails conservative measures can go onto have substantial impairment in gait and push-off strength, leading to decreased function.

Stryker announced the launch of its Citrelock tendon fixation device system, an orthopedic device system that offers surgeons resorbable technology, according to a company press release.

Embody Inc. has received FDA 510(k) clearance for its T biointegrative implant for tendon and ligament repair, according to a press release.

The minimally invasive midsubstance surgical technique for acute midsubstance Achilles tendon ruptures passes sutures longitudinally through the distal Achilles stump and anchors proximal sutures into the calcaneus for early range of motion and weight-bearing.

Acute midsubstance Achilles tendon ruptures are an increasingly common injury among athletic patients that can lead to significant functional limitations and decreased quality of life. Management of these injuries remains controversial with no consensus in the literature regarding the role of surgical treatment or optimal repair technique. Recent literature has shown that surgical repair can result in faster and a 16% to 24% increased return of calf muscle strength, decreased tendon elongation and improved physical function and pain scores compared to nonoperative functional rehabilitation. Various surgical techniques have been described for midsubstance Achilles ruptures including open repair with Krackow locking sutures, limited incision repair using suture-passing jigs and percutaneous repair. The overall goal of minimally invasive Achilles repair techniques is to maximize the functional benefits of direct tendon repair while minimizing postoperative complications, such as delayed wound healing and infection.