E-Stim and Achilles Tendon Repair Study (E-Stim)
Achilles Tendon Rupture
About this trial
This is an interventional prevention trial for Achilles Tendon Rupture focused on measuring Achilles
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- 1. Any patient who is having surgery to treat an acute Achilles tendon rupture or any surgery that involves reflecting or repairing the distal Achilles tendon.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 45
- Inability to consent to participate in clinical research
- Any patient younger than 18 years old
Any limitations that would interfere with the delivery of electrical stimulation including, but not limited to:
- Presence of an insulin pump
- Pacemaker, defibrillators or other implanted electrical device
- Neurostimulation implants
- History of epilepsy/seizure
- Current pregnancy. A pregnancy test will be performed for any female prior to surgical intervention per hospital protocol unless she is post-menopausal or has been sterilized.
- Active malignancy
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Ischemia of lower limbs
- Active infection
- Following acute trauma or fracture
Sites / Locations
- Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Center
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Active Comparator
Sham Comparator
Group 1- Compex® muscle stimulator
Group 2 -(inactive) muscle stimulator
Group 1 will receive an active muscle stimulator, which will be placed immediately following surgery. Eight electrodes will be placed on the lower leg: four electrodes on the gastrocnemius (calf muscle), and two electrodes each on the lateral gastrocnemius (side) and anterior tibialis muscle (front). Subjects will use the stimulator for three 20 minute sessions per day.
Group 2 will receive a placebo (inactive) muscle stimulator, which will be placed immediately following surgery. Eight electrodes will be placed on the lower leg: four electrodes on the gastrocnemius (calf muscle), and two electrodes each on the lateral gastrocnemius (side) and anterior tibialis muscle (front). Subjects will be instructed to use the stimulator for three 20 minute sessions per day.