Studies and Supporting Technology for Achilles Injury
📚 Study Reference — A study by Hsu et al. compared the clinical outcomes of the percutaneous Achilles repair system (PARS) versus the open technique for acute Achilles tendon ruptures, highlighting the benefits of the PARS system.
🔧 Technique Description — The Arthrex Midsubstance SpeedBridge repair combines the PARS technique with SwiveLock anchors for a knotless repair, which may provide additional strength compared to traditional open repairs.
🧵 Suture Innovation — The PARS SutureTape used in the SpeedBridge technique offers increased resistance to tissue pull-through and stronger fixation, enhancing the repair’s durability.
🔍 Clinical Outcomes — The PARS Achilles Midsubstance SpeedBridge system is noted for reducing re-rupture rates and improving calf strength, while minimizing wound healing complications.
📈 Research and Development — Arthrex’s research and development data supports the effectiveness of the SpeedBridge technique, emphasizing its reproducibility and strength.
“Clinical outcomes and complications of percutaneous Achilles repair system versus open technique for acute Achilles tendon ruptures.”
Technique Details
🔧 PARS Technique — The Percutaneous Achilles Repair System (PARS) is a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions to repair Achilles tendon ruptures.
🧵 Knotless Repair — The SpeedBridge technique eliminates the need for knots by using interference fixation, which can enhance the repair’s strength.
⚙️ SwiveLock Anchors — These anchors are used in the calcaneus to secure the suture, providing a stable and durable repair.
🩹 SutureTape — The 1.3 mm SutureTape offers increased resistance to tissue pull-through, making it a reliable choice for tendon repairs.
🔄 Reproducibility — The technique allows for consistent tensioning, reducing variability in the repair process.
“Achilles Midsubstance SpeedBridge repair combines the minimal incision PARS technique with 2 SwiveLock® anchors into the calcaneus for a knotless repair.”
Clinical Outcomes
📉 Reduced Re-Rupture Rates — The PARS system has been associated with lower re-rupture rates compared to traditional open techniques.
💪 Improved Calf Strength — Patients undergoing the SpeedBridge repair often experience better calf strength post-surgery.
🏃 Return to Activity — The technique supports a quicker return to sports and recreational activities for patients.
🩺 Minimizing Complications — The minimally invasive nature of the PARS system reduces the risk of wound healing and infectious complications.
🔬 Study Findings — Research by Hsu et al. supports the clinical benefits of the PARS system over open repair methods.
“Open repair of acute Achilles tendon ruptures continues to remain controversial among surgeons as they weigh the tradeoffs of reduced re-rupture rates, improved calf strength, and increased return to activity against potential wound healing and infectious complications.”