Minimally-Invasive Achilles Suture Trial
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Minimally-Invasive Achilles Suture Trial (MIAST): Non-Absorbable vs. Absorbable
IRAS ID
288885
Contact name
MR Carmont
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Department of Research & Innovation
Duration of Study in the UK
6 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Operative repair of the ruptured Achilles tendon leads to improved ankle plantar flexion strength, less tendon elongation [Lantto] and reduced time to return to work [Soroceanu] than non-operative management. Minimally-invasive repair of the tendon shows similar outcome to operative repair however has reduced risk of complications such as infection and wound breakdown [Grassi].
Both absorbable and non-absorbable suture materials have been used to repair the Achilles tendon and have resulted in good outcome although differing suture techniques, sizes, type of suture and rehabilitation methods make comparison difficult. The Carmont and Maffulli modified percutaneous repair technique was first described in 2007 and since then has shown good outcome in many patient groups. The original technique used Maxon sutures, an absorbable monofilament suture. Since then Fiberwire and Vicryl braided sutures have been used but patient outcomes have not been directly compared in a single study.
The aim of this study is to compare the functional outcome of patients who had sustained a rupture of the Achilles tendon and had this repaired using a minimally -invasive repair using either absorbable or non-absorbable suture material.REC name
Wales REC 4
REC reference
20/WA/0332
Date of REC Opinion
7 Jan 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion