Supine Achilles Repair: Faster Recovery With Comparable Outcome

Published this spring, a study titled “The Medial Mini-Open Supine Achilles Repair: Outcomes on a Medially Based Mini-Open Technique Composed With Prone Techniques,” explores advancements in Achilles tendon repair, focusing on smaller incisions and easier patient positioning. It reviewed one-year outcomes of a medial mini-open, supine approach versus traditional prone techniques in 78 patients.

Key findings:

• PROMIS scores: No major differences in function or pain among groups.

• Surgical time: Supine mini-open technique was faster (avg 58 min) compared to mini-open prone (72 min) and open prone (89 min).

• Demographics and complications: No significant differences.

Bottom line:

This paper advocates the medial mini-open supine repair as a noninferior and faster option for Achilles tendon ruptures, offering similar 1-year outcomes. However, the outcome data does not include functional scores for push-off strength or athletic performance.