| Now it's time to talk about the actual procedure your doctor has recommended for you.
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On the day of your operation, you will be asked to put on a surgical gown. |
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You may receive a sedative by mouth and |
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an intravenous line may be put in. |
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You will then be transferred to the operating table, where you'll be placed in a prone position, with your leg supported. |
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In the operating room, the anesthesiologist will begin to administer anesthesia - either general... |
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... or regional. |
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The surgeon will then apply antiseptic solution to the skin around the area where the incisions will be made... |
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place a sterile drape around the operative site. |
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After allowing a few minutes for the anesthetic to take effect ... |
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an incision will be made in the long axis of the ankle over the injured tendon. |
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The incision is carried down through the skin, exposing the underlying tendon sheath. |
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The sheath is then opened to reveal the tendon itself and the contained, |
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damaged Achilles tendon. |
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The damaged portion of the tendon is then cut away, taking as little tissue as possible, but cutting back to strong, viable tendon fibers. |
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The surgeon weaves sutures through the tendon fibers in a pattern designed to hold with good strength. |
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Then the two tendon ends are pulled into contact and tied securely. |
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Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures. |
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After sterile dressings are applied, a well-padded splint will be fitted. |
