Achilles tendon rupture part 1 - Assessment, diagnosis & management options

Achilles tendon ruptures have increased in frequency over the last 30 years. Over this time period it has become more common to manage Achilles tendon ruptures using conservative means however this method may have some drawbacks, and some patients are more suitable for surgical management. What is the best management for your individual Achilles tendon rupture patients? Should your patients be managed conservatively or surgically?

Improve your knowledge, clinical examination and management of Achilles tendon ruptures with this webinar with Dr Seth O'Neill.

Discover:

• Achilles tendon anatomy and common rupture sites
• Are there warning signs or symptoms prior to rupture?
• What factors contribute to tendon rupture?
• Do ruptures occur in non-athletes?
• What is the mechanism of injury?
• What are the risk factors for rupture?
• Who is at risk of rupture?
• Are patients with Achilles tendinopathy likely to rupture their tendon?
• Antibiotics and medications that can contribute to tendon rupture
• What are the giveaways that a patient has an Achilles rupture?
• How can you diagnose ruptures?
• What are the important aspects to assess?
• What tests should you perform?
• When is imaging important?
• Should every patient with an Achilles have imaging?
• What should you do when you are having trouble diagnosing a rupture eg in obese or non-sporting injuries?
• Management options - surgical versus conservative
• How close should the ends of the tendon be, for the patient to be suitable for conservative management?
• When is surgery the best management option for patients?
• Is it all about the rehab?
• Is the management all about the plantarflexors?
• Who is likely to be able to return to play following rupture?