Sibaji Chaudhuri 1 , Asoke Ray 2
ABSTRACT: INTRODUCTION: Rupture of tendon calcaneum is a common problem.There are proponents of both conservative and operative methods.Inadequate strength and re ruptures are frequent. To address both the problems we have chosen Lindholm technique and doing it for last 20 yrs with very good results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 1994 to August 2013, 112 consecutive patients were treated by this method, 85 cases were fresh ruptures, 23 were neglected ruptures and four cases were re rupture after operation done elsewhere. Torn tendo calcaneum was repaired by Kessler suture, it was then augmented with two 8cm by 1cm turn down flap of gastrosoleus apponeurosis. Skin suture was done with utmost care. BK pop cast was done in equinus position of ankle for four weeks, followed by gradual weight bearing with heel raised shoe for six months. RESULTS: All patients went back to their pre injury activity level. In four patients there were superficial skin infection which healed without skin necrosis. One patient needed rotation flap. Evaluation was done by modified Rupp score. It was found to be excellent in 47% cases good in 43% cases and fair in 8% cases. CONCLUSION: Lindholm technique was originally described for neglected cases, we used it in all cases to avoid any complication in fresh cases and found it universally successful.
