The Efficacy of Different Immobilization Times After Achilles Tendon Rupture Surgery

This prospective randomized controlled clinical study is designed to compare the treatment outcomes of different immobilization times by dividing the patients into four groups-A, B, C, and D-based on the amount of immobilization time (0, 2, 4, and 6 weeks, respectively) that include a similar rehabilitation protocol. The inclusion criteria are patients with an acute closed single-legged complete Achilles tendon rupture, and an age of 18 to 60 years. The exclusion criteria are patients with prior Achilles tendon rupture or other situations that affect their lower limb functions or tendon healing (e.g., autoimmune disease, diabetes mellitus, systemic corticosteroid treatment). Other exclusion criteria are an inability to complete our suture technique (e.g., the distance from the rupture site to the Achilles tendon insertion is less than 3.5 cm), or those without rehabilitation or follow-up outcomes. All patients will be treated surgically with the same suture technique and undergo a similar rehabilitation protocol after the brace is removed.