Clinical Outcome of Achilles Tendon Repair Using Viable Intact Cryopreserved Umbilical Tissue Versus Standard of Case

Introduction: Repair of acute Achilles tendon ruptures is complicated by the severity of the rupture, quality of the tendon, and length of the defect. The adjunct use of biologics (eg, viable umbilical tissue) may provide additional support and reduce postoperative inflammation, adhesions, and fibrosis.

Objective: The aim of this study is to review the outcomes of Achilles tendon rupture open repairs with viable cryopreserved umbilical tissue (vCUT) compared with patients treated with standard of care only.

Materials and methods: Four patients (average age, 59 years; range, 55-65 years; 2 male, 2 female) with acute Achilles tendon injuries treated surgically with vCUT were selected. The repairs were augmented with vCUT sutured over the tendon ends (Wharton's jelly side towards the tendon) with absorbable sutures.

Results: Patients remained nonweight-bearing after surgery for 4 to 6 weeks followed by a gradual return to ambulation. All patients maintained durable skin closure, had minimal scarring and edema, and were able to return to work in 8 to 10 weeks. All 4 patients returned to their preinjury activity level without pain or loss of function. There were no vCUT-related complications or adverse events.

Conclusions: Clinical outcomes of this study support the use of vCUT for augmentation of Achilles tendon repair.

Full link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29166259/