Function after Achilles tendon rupture in the elderly: 25 patients older than 65 years followed for 3 years

Abstract

We retrospectively analyzed the function after Achilles tendon rupture in 25 patients older than 65 years, 3 (1-5) years after the initial treatment. The patients' median age at the time of injury was 71 (65-86) years. The initial management was surgical in 14 patients and non-surgical (8-week immobilization) in 10, 1 patient was not treated. The ratio of the number of heel-raises on the injured to the uninjured side was median 0.64 (0-1.14), showing a reduction in performance. However, in both surgically- and non-surgically-treated patients, the subjective impairment was mild, and the patients were able to perform most walking activities. Only 9 patients reached their previous activity level. Co-morbidity was frequent: 17 patients had other diseases that affected their performance. 14 complications occurred in 11 patients. 5 patients sustained a rerupture (4 following initial closed treatment with plaster), 1 a deep venous thrombosis and 4 had superficial infections requiring antibiotic treatment. 1 patient sustained a fibular nerve injury following compression by the plaster cast and another a sural nerve injury during the operation. 2 patients had symptoms due to adhesions between the tendon and the skin. We conclude that Achilles tendon rupture in patients older than 65 years reduces lower limb function and that complications are common following surgical and non-surgical treatment.