Percutaneous Repair in Patients Aged 50 Years and Older Is Associated With Good Outcomes in Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture.

Background: The incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures in patients aged ≥50 years is increasing worldwide with an aging population that is increasingly physically active and taking up recreational activities, such as pickleball and paddleball. The aim of this study was to assess patient-reported outcomes in patients aged ≥50 years with a complete Achilles tendon rupture comparing percutaneous repair to non-operative management over 12 months. Methods: This is a single-centre prospective cohort study with patients recruited over a 10-year period. Patients filled an Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) at 3-month, 6-month and 12-month intervals. Results: 173 patients were included; 70 patients were managed operatively and 103 patients were managed non-operatively. At 12 months, 50 patients (71.4%) in the operative group and 57 patients (55.3%) in the non-operative group completed the ATRS score. At 3-month and 6-month intervals, there was no statistically significant difference in average ATRS scores ( Conclusion: Patients aged ≥50 years who undergo percutaneous repair had higher ATRS scores at 12 months compared with non-operative care. Percutaneous repair appears to be a valid option for management of these injuries in an increasingly active population aged ≥50 years. Level of Evidence: Level II, prospective cohort study.