Treatment of Catastrophic Infection After Surgery for Insertional Achilles Enthesopathy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Foot Ankle Spec. 2015 Aug;8(4):324-9. doi: 10.1177/1938640014546864. Epub 2014 Aug 19.

Abstract

Wound complications after surgical treatment of insertional Achilles enthesopathy are well documented. Skin and tendon necroses pose a significant dilemma with the potential for catastrophic outcomes. Numerous treatment algorithms have been described to treat the resultant skin and tendon defects after catastrophic infection; however, to date, there is no consensus as to the optimal treatment modality. We report our experience in the management of deep infection of 2 patients who had previously undergone surgical treatment for insertional Achilles enthesopathy. A comprehensive review of the literature was undertaken with a focus on described treatment options.

Levels of evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case report.

Keywords: allograft; infection; insertional Achilles enthesopathy; reconstruction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Achilles Tendon / surgery*
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Debridement / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Orthopedic Procedures / adverse effects*
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / adverse effects*
  • Surgical Wound Infection / etiology
  • Surgical Wound Infection / therapy*
  • Tendinopathy / surgery*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents