Journal article

Publication year: 2010

Pages: 265-268

Journal: Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy

Volume number: 18

Issue number: 2

ISSN: 0942-2056

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-009-0948-0

Publisher: Wiley

Abstract: 
Generally, outcome after surgical repair of complete Achilles tendon rupture is good. However, some patients have ongoing problems with dorsiflexion of the ankle joint. We report on eight patients, who did not achieve heel contact because of reduced ankle dorsiflexion 5 months after surgical repair of complete Achilles tendon rupture. All patients received at least three cycles of injections with 200-300 units of Botulinum toxin A (BOTOX(A (R))) into the gastrocnemius and soleus muscle. Weakening of the triceps surae by Botulinum toxin allowed patients to perform the required exercises and to tolerate casting at night. Thus, all patients were able to tolerate plantigrade foot position 9 months after beginning of Botulinum toxin treatment. At final follow-up after 2 years, pain had significantly improved, and a mean dorsiflexion of 21A degrees was reached. In conclusion, treatment of the calf muscles with BOTOX(A (R)) is a safe and effective method to improve restricted dorsiflexion in patients after Achilles tendon repair.

Harvard Citation style: Reuter, I., Lorbach, O., Mehnert, S., Kaps, M. and Engelhardt, M. (2010) Botulinum toxin improves reduced dorsiflexion after Achilles tendon surgery, Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy, 18(2), pp. 265-268. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-009-0948-0

APA Citation style: Reuter, I., Lorbach, O., Mehnert, S., Kaps, M., & Engelhardt, M. (2010). Botulinum toxin improves reduced dorsiflexion after Achilles tendon surgery. Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy. 18(2), 265-268. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-009-0948-0