Minimally Invasive PARS for Achilles Rupture

PARS procedure from expert podiatrists in Woodbury Heights, Haddon Heights, Voorhees, & Pine Hill, NJ

Our experienced podiatrists can fix your injury with the PARS for Achilles rupture.

PARS (percutaneous Achilles repair system) is an advanced surgical technique designed to deliver a minimally invasive treatment for a ruptured Achilles. 

In contrast to conventional surgeries, where open techniques are used to repair ruptured Achilles, PARS minimizes this concern, allowing surgeons to tackle the rupture through minimally invasive methods.

The PARS technique involves a small incision for inserting the PARS repair guide, enabling the placement of four sutures in the healthy tendon ends. These ends are then stitched together in an hourglass shape to fuse them with greater compression.

Patients who undergo the PARS procedure report a lower risk of infection, less scar tissue formation, and reduced recovery times. It's a revolutionary procedure that promises patients a more natural tendon after healing

What is an Achilles Tendon Rupture?

The Achilles tendon attaches the calf muscle to the heel bone. It's clearly visible through the skin at the rear of the foot whenever a person flexes their ankle. 

Because of the tremendous pressures it undergoes, the Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body. In fact, it's responsible for your leg's ability to walk, run, and jump.

Nevertheless, it can occur when put under extreme pressure. Here, the tendon undergoes a full or partial tear. Common causes include tripping, falling, or twisting your ankle — the ruptures occur most frequently while playing sports.

Achilles tendon rupture is more likely among people aged 30 to 40 and arises in men more often than women. So-called "weekend warriors" are also at higher risk — adults who infrequently train and exercise at high intensity. 

The classic sign of a ruptured Achilles is a pop or snap at the back of the ankle — it's the sound of the tendon snapping. 

Other symptoms include:

  • Inability to move the ankle

  • Sharp, sudden pain in the rear of the ankle

  • Swelling and bruising in the rear of the ankle

  • Tenderness in the rear of the ankle

When is PARS indicated for a Ruptured Achilles Tendon?

In almost all cases of Achilles tendon in active individuals, middle-aged or younger, surgical repair is recommended. Considering that conventional treatment is substantially more invasive, PARS is indicated in all age groups requiring surgical intervention.

In fact, in older patients whose surgical risks of infection or nerve damage are too great or there is heightened concern for wound healing, PARS is the ideal minimally invasive technique.

What to expect from the PARS procedure?

With no need for a long incision, PARS Achilles repair patients experience a much faster recovery compared to traditional open repair techniques. Following the procedure, patients should wear a cast for two weeks and a boot for another four weeks until they can bear weight on their feet.

The incision typically heals within a weak — with minimal scarring.

After the boot is removed, physical therapy begins, strengthening the muscles — speeding up the recovery process. Once healed, the tendon will appear thinner and more natural than other techniques.

What are the benefits of the PARS procedure?

Here are some of the main benefits of the PARS technique:

Reduce recovery time. 

Being minimally invasive, PARS Achilles surgery recovery entails reducing healing time and promoting a cleaner, speedier recovery. The incision, typically 1 cm long, heals rapidly. Casts need only be worn for a few weeks compared to the 6 to 8 weeks required in conventional surgery.

Improve cosmetic appearance. 

Repairing a ruptured Achilles tendon conventionally can result in tendon weakness, scar tissue formation, and an unsightly scar. The PARS technique forms less scar tissue, producing a slimmer, more natural cosmetic appearance.

Fewer side effects.

All surgery carries risks of infection, blood clots, and more. Reducing the surgery time and incision size lessens the risk of these adverse events. 

Here at Prime Foot & Ankle Specialists, we utilize advanced techniques like PARS for Achilles Rupture to restore your tendon to optimal function. With this technique, we can ensure you're back on your feet within a few months instead of spending endless weeks out of action. 

Contact us today for more information.