The Effectiveness of Open Repair Versus Percutaneous Repair for an Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Critically Appraised Topic.

There are two approaches available for surgical repair of the Achilles tendon: open repair, or percutaneous repair. However, there is controversy whether or not an open repair or percutaneous repair is superior. Focused Clinical Question: Which type of surgery is better in providing the best overall patient outcome, open or percutaneous repair, in physically active males and females with acute Achilles tendon ruptures? Summary of Search, "Best Evidence" Appraised and Key Findings: The literature was searched for studies of level 3 evidence or higher that investigated the effectiveness of open repair versus percutaneous repair on acute Achilles tendon ruptures in physically active males and females. The literature search resulted in four studies for possible inclusion. All three quality studies were included. Clinical Bottom Line: There is supporting evidence to indicate that percutaneous repair is the best option for Achilles tendon surgery, when it comes to the physically active population. Percutaneous repair has faster surgery times, less risk of complications, and has faster recovery times over having an open repair. This is acknowledging that every patient has a different situation and best individual option may vary patient to patient.