Arthroscopy Techniques (Feb 2021)

Mini-Open Achilles Repair With a Flat Braided Suture in a Low-Profile Configuration

  • Stewart A. Bryant, M.D.,
  • Garrett Trang, B.S.,
  • Hannah M. Nash, B.A.,
  • Brandon B. Gardner, M.D., Ph.D.,
  • Joo Yeon Kim, B.A.,
  • Hee-Yon Park, B.A.,
  • Moyukh Chakrabarti, M.B.B.S.,
  • Patrick McGahan, M.D.,
  • James L. Chen, M.D., M.P.H.

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 10, no. 2
pp. e451 – e455

Abstract

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Achilles repair has evolved over the past 30 years, from large open procedures with high complication rates to shorter, less-invasive procedures with better outcomes. Percutaneous repair has comparable failure rates with open repairs, fewer complications, and faster recovery. However, percutaneous Achilles repairs risk sural nerve injury. A mini-open repair fuses the gap between percutaneous and open procedures, and this approach has the potential to mitigate nerve injury while maintaining the increased efficiency in procedure time and patient recovery. The purpose of this Technical Note and accompanying video is to outline the repair of the Achilles tendon using a mini open repair using a low-profile flat braided suture.