Comparison of Radiological Outcomes in Surgical Vs. Non-Surgical Treatment of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture

Abstract

Background: Acute Achilles tendon rupture is a common and significant injury, especially among active individuals. The optimal management—whether surgical or non-surgical—remains a subject of debate. Objective: This study aims to compare the radiological outcomes between surgical and non-surgical treatments for acute Achilles tendon rupture. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 80 patients with acute Achilles tendon ruptures, divided equally between surgical (n=40) and non-surgical (n=40) treatment groups. Radiological outcomes, including tendon gap reduction and tendon integrity, were assessed through imaging techniques. Functional outcomes, healing time, and re-rupture rates were also evaluated. Results: Surgical treatment resulted in significantly better radiological outcomes compared to non-surgical treatment. The surgical group showed greater tendon gap reduction (mean 4.2 mm, SD=1.6) compared to the non-surgical group (mean 2.5 mm, SD=1.3) with a p-value <0.001. Tendon integrity scores were also higher in the surgical group (mean 8.4, SD=0.9) than in the non-surgical group (mean 7.1, SD=1.1), with a p-value of 0.002. Additionally, the surgical group exhibited faster healing times and lower re-rupture rates. Functional recovery scores and range of motion were superior in patients undergoing surgery. Conclusion: Surgical treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures is associated with superior radiological outcomes and reduced re-rupture rates compared to non-surgical management. These findings support the use of surgical intervention in suitable patients to optimize tendon healing and functional recovery.