Surgical Treatment of the Neglected Achilles Tendon Rupture

The true frequency of acute Achilles tendon rupture is unknown but historically it was regarded as a rare injury comprising less than 0.2% of the general population (Cetti et al., 1993; Nillius et al., 1976). However, in the past decade the incidence of Achilles tendon rupture has increased (Maffuli et al., 1999). At the present time, Achilles tendon ruptures are the most common tendon rupture of the lower extremity and may account for up to 40% of all operated tendon ruptures (Habusta, 1995; Jozsa et al., 1989). The increase in frequency is thought to be due to an increased interest and participation in recreational sports by middleaged and older patients and also to better reporting (Coughlin et al, 2007).