Aims: This review was designed in order to study the percutaneous repair of Achilles tendon rupture in athletic population. We present a comprehensive description of clinical, functional outcomes, complications, with emphasis on patients' level, and time of return to sports.
Methods: We proceeded to a systematic search of Medline (PubMED), Cochrane, and Scopus databases using keywords "Achilles Tendon", "Percutaneous Repair", "Percutaneous suturing", "Subcutaneous repair", "Subcutaneous suturing", "Athletes", and "Athletic" to identify articles or abstracts written in English.
Results: Thirteen studies, including 670 patients, could be identified. A variety of percutaneous repair techniques were performed. Re-rupture rate was very low. The most frequent complication was sural nerve damage. Average functional outcomes were satisfying. Up to 91.4% continued practicing sports after surgery. Furthermore, 78-84% returned to the same or higher sports level. Average time of return was 18 weeks in 9 studies.
Conclusion: Percutaneous repair of Achilles tendon rupture is an excellent perspective for athletic population. Low re-rupture rate and impressing level of return to sports allow athletes to continue their recreational activities or careers.
Keywords: Achilles tendon; Athletes; Percutaneous repair; Subcutaneous repair; Subcutaneous suturing.