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Vietnamese Doctors Successfully Reconstruct Severely Damaged Achilles Tendon with Innovative Technique
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.
