We report on seven traumatic lesions of the tibialis anterior tendon (one subcutaneous rupture and six open tears) in seven injured patients of mean age 45 years [17–79] all managed by direct suture and immobilization either using a cast boot (four cases) or a lower leg external fixator (three cases). After a mean follow-up of 31 months (6–50), external fixation achieved favourable clinical results with no specific complication. External fixation improves the conditions for suture efficiency, provides full immobilization and facilitates wound care in patients at a high risk of developing cutaneous complications. In accordance with data published in the literature, immobilization by means of a windowed cast boot achieved satisfactory results in patients with no risk factors. This method compatible with early mobilization avoids placement of a posterior splint which could induce slackening and weakening of tendon repair.

Retrospective study (Level IV).