HÀ NỘI – ⁤Doctors at teh⁢ National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hà Nội have achieved a medical milestone by successfully‍ reconstructing nearly the entire Achilles tendon⁢ of a 49-year-old woman,⁣ preventing permanent disability and restoring approximately 90% of her⁣ mobility.‍ The surgery utilized a complex vascularized “chimeric flap” technique, marking a first for the​ hospital and a rare capability within⁢ Việt Nam.

Complex Case⁣ and Innovative Surgical Approach

Dương Mạnh ⁣Chiến, a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon at‌ the hospital, explained the ⁢complexity of the case. “This is the first time our⁣ hospital has performed simultaneous reconstruction of tendon and skin using ‍a ‌vascularised ‘chimeric flap’ technique in a case of severe infection. very few medical centres in Việt Nam are currently capable of carrying out such complex microsurgery.”

The patient’s initial injury, a deep knife⁤ wound to her heel, was initially treated with simple suturing at a ⁤local medical facility.Unfortunately, the initial assessment failed to identify the complete severance of the Achilles tendon. When the patient’s ​condition did not improve, she was diagnosed with a tendon rupture and underwent a repair ⁤surgery‌ at another hospital, which proved insufficient.

The Chimeric Flap technique: A Detailed Explanation

The vascularized ‌chimeric flap technique involves transferring a flap of tissue containing both skin and tendon from another part of the body, along with its blood supply, to reconstruct the damaged area. This ensures adequate blood flow to the reconstructed tendon and skin, promoting healing ​and minimizing the risk of complications. The “chimeric” aspect refers to the flap containing different‌ tissue ‌types (skin and tendon) supplied ⁢by a single vascular pedicle.

This technique is particularly challenging due to the intricate microsurgery required to connect the blood vessels and nerves. Successful⁣ implementation requires a highly skilled surgical team⁤ and specialized equipment.

Challenges and Outcomes

The patient faced significant challenges due to the initial misdiagnosis and ‌the severity of the tendon damage. The subsequent ‍surgery‍ at another‌ hospital was ​unsuccessful in restoring‌ full function.The ‍National Hospital for tropical Diseases’‌ innovative⁢ approach proved crucial in achieving a positive outcome.

Following the surgery, the patient is expected to‌ undergo a extensive⁢ rehabilitation programme to regain full strength and mobility. Doctors anticipate she will recover up to 90% of her pre-injury function.