Could Conservative Treatment Become the New Gold Standard in Achilles Tendon Ruptures?

This study aims to compare conservative and surgical treatments for acute Achilles tendon rupture. Forty-four patients were randomly assigned to either a conservative rehabilitation protocol or open surgical repair. Functional outcomes were evaluated using isokinetic muscle strength testing and clinical scoring systems such as the ATRS, AOFAS, FADI, VAS, and Leppilahti scores. The results showed no significant difference between the two groups in terms of strength, tendon length, or clinical outcomes. Rerupture rates were similar, while wound complications occurred only in the surgical group. The findings suggest that conservative treatment combined with early functional rehabilitation can provide outcomes comparable to surgery, with fewer complications. Conservative treatment may be a safe and effective alternative for managing acute Achilles tendon ruptures.