BACKGROUNDThere is lack of consensus regarding the best option for the treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture-operation or non-operation. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to identify and summarize the randomized controlled trials comparing the operative and non-operative lines of treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures.

METHODSWe searched multiple databases in English (including EMBASE, PubMed, and OVID) and in Chinese (including CNKI, WANFANG, and VIP), as well as reference lists of articles and main orthopaedic and sports medical journals. Two reviewers independently screened the studies for eligibility, evaluated the quality and extracted data from eligible studies, with confirmation by cross-checking. The major results and conclusions were concluded, and the different complication rates and functional outcomes were compared. Meta-analysis was processed by RevMan 5.0 software.

RESULTSEight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 777 patients met the inclusion criteria. The rerupture rate in non-operative group was significantly higher (Z = 3.33, P < 0.01). However, the moderate (Z = 4.27, P < 0.01) and minor (Z = 5.59, P < 0.01) complication rate in the operative group were significantly higher. No significant difference in comparing the major and total complication rates. The return to work time in the operative group was shorter (Z = 2.65, P < 0.01). The inability to return to previous level sporting rate and ankle joint decreased range of motion (ROM) rate showed no significant difference in the two groups. Other functional outcomes were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONSOperation could significantly reduce the risk of rerupture; however, it was associated with a higher risk of other complications. The functional outcomes were similar in two treatment methods except an earlier return to work in patients treated operatively. Thus operative treatment is preferable for patients with good physical condition. Non-operative treatment is an acceptable alternative especially for the older and patients with lower sporting requirements.