Which statement about Achilles tendon rupture management is true?

Which statement about Achilles tendon rupture management is true?

• A. Operative repair does not allow early ROM
• B. Non-operative approach always succeeds
• C. Immobilization for 12 months
• D. Operative repair allows for early ROM

Answer: (D)

Balancing protection of the repair with functional recovery is the key idea. When the Achilles tendon ends are surgically reapproximated and secured, the repair provides enough stability to start controlled range of motion early in the postoperative period. This early ROM helps prevent stiffness and adhesions and typically speeds return to activity, which is why operative repair often allows prompt movement after surgery. Nonoperative treatment can work in many cases with modern functional bracing and early ROM, but it does not guarantee success for every patient, particularly those who are more active or have higher rupture risk. Immobilizing for 12 months is not standard practice and would lead to severe stiffness and weakness; current protocols use a short period of immobilization in plantar flexion followed by gradual ROM and loading. So, the statement that operative repair allows early ROM is the best choice.

Balancing protection of the repair with functional recovery is the key idea. When the Achilles tendon ends are surgically reapproximated and secured, the repair provides enough stability to start controlled range of motion early in the postoperative period. This early ROM helps prevent stiffness and adhesions and typically speeds return to activity, which is why operative repair often allows prompt movement after surgery.

Nonoperative treatment can work in many cases with modern functional bracing and early ROM, but it does not guarantee success for every patient, particularly those who are more active or have higher rupture risk. Immobilizing for 12 months is not standard practice and would lead to severe stiffness and weakness; current protocols use a short period of immobilization in plantar flexion followed by gradual ROM and loading.

So, the statement that operative repair allows early ROM is the best choice.