Bilateral Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Can Be Effectively Treated Non-operatively

Acute rupture of the Achilles tendon (AT) is a common but debilitating injury that requires immediate diagnosis and effective management. Spontaneous bilateral AT rupture is rare; however, it can lead to severe disability for a significant period. This case report presents a 76-year-old patient who...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Cureus 2024, Vol.16 (5), p.e59511-e59511
Main Authors: Konstantinou, Efstathios, Mylonas, Theodoros, Karachalios, Theofilos, Varitimidis, Sokratis, Athanaselis, Efstratios D
Format: Report
Language:English
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Summary:Acute rupture of the Achilles tendon (AT) is a common but debilitating injury that requires immediate diagnosis and effective management. Spontaneous bilateral AT rupture is rare; however, it can lead to severe disability for a significant period. This case report presents a 76-year-old patient who suffered a bilateral AT rupture while engaging in a non-strenuous activity. Upon confirmation of the diagnosis by physical examination and radiologic evaluation, conservative treatment was decided due to the presence of numerous comorbidities. A personalized rehabilitation protocol was implemented, allowing weight-bearing activities using Achilles boots at six weeks. Healing of both ATs was confirmed by an MRI at three months. Our case shows that non-operative treatment of these injuries can result in exceptionally favorable outcomes and should not be disregarded. However, thorough patient compliance and surveillance are prerequisites.
ISSN:2168-8184
2168-8184
DOI:10.7759/cureus.59511