Arthrex's Achilles Midsubstance SpeedBridge™ Implant System Repair

• The Injury: The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It connects the two large muscles at the back of the calf to the heel. A rupture of the Achilles occurs when the tendon tears. Patients can hear a pop followed by sharp pain in the back of the ankle and lower leg.
• The Repair: Achilles Midsubstance SpeedBridge^™ repair involves repairing the torn Achilles tendon using high-strength SutureTape. The repaired tendon is then reinforced and protected by securing the SutureTape with two SwiveLock^® anchors in the heel bone. The repair is performed through very small incisions and is knotless, creating a stronger construct and removing knots that could cause irritation.
  
  Following the procedure, the surgeon may choose to put JumpStart^® antimicrobial wound dressing over the repair. Embedded within the dressing are microcell batteries made of silver and zinc, which generates an electrical current and kills a broad spectrum of harmful bacteria to help reduce the risk of infection.
• Advantages of the Achilles Midsubstance SpeedBridge^™ Repair System: By enabling direct fixation to bone, this repair improves stability such that immediate postoperative weightbearing and range of motion is possible¹. Allowing for early mobilization and minimizing the risk of knot slippage can help accelerate recovery and allow for restoration of normal function.
• Return to Play: Elite athletes typically return to play beginning at about 5 months, but 6 months to a year is more common, dependent on physical therapy, trainers and the patient as not everyone heals the same.
• History: The first Achilles Midsubstance SpeedBridge^™ Repair technique was performed on an Achilles tendon rupture in 2014.
• Patients: The Arthrex Achilles Midsubstance SpeedBridge Implant System Repair been used in more than 50,000 patients. It is available to all patients, not just elite athletes.