Achilles debridement surgery
What is Achilles debridement and why is it required some of the time?
Achilles debridement surgery is used to treat chronic Achilles tendinopathy when pain persists despite non-surgical treatment. Over time, part of the tendon can become thickened, inflamed or degenerated, causing pain with walking, exercise and footwear. Debridement removes unhealthy tendon tissue and inflammation, allowing healthier tendon to heal and function more effectively.
What does the operation involve?
- The procedure is usually performed as a day-case under general or regional anaesthetic.
- An incision is made along or beside the Achilles tendon.
- Damaged or inflamed tendon tissue is carefully debrided (removed).
- Associated problems such as inflamed bursae or bone irritation may be treated at the same time.
- If a significant portion of tendon is involved, repair or reinforcement may be performed, sometimes requiring the transfer of another tendon.
- The wound is closed and the ankle protected in a boot.
The exact technique depends on whether the tendinopathy is mid-portion or insertional, and your surgeon will discuss this with you beforehand.
achilles debridement Consent Information
Consent Form Achilles debridement (docx)
DownloadPost Surgical Recovery
Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)
- Your ankle is protected in a boot or cast, depending on tendon involvement.
- Elevation is important to control swelling.
- Weight-bearing may be limited initially.
- Stitches are removed at 10–14 days.
2-6 weeks after surgery
- Gradual increase in weight-bearing in the boot as advised.
- Gentle ankle movement exercises may begin.
- Swelling and stiffness are normal.
6-12 weeks after surgery
- Transition from boot to normal footwear.
- Physiotherapy focuses on restoring movement, strength and tendon loading.
- Walking distances gradually increase.
Longer term (3-6 months and beyond)
- Continued strengthening and return to low-impact exercise such as cycling or swimming.
- Pain and swelling continue to improve.
- Scar tissue softens and the foot feels more natural.
- Most patients return to:
- Golf, gym, casual hiking by 8–12 weeks
- Higher-impact sports by 3–6 months depending on comfort
- Final comfort levels may continue to improve for up to 6–12 months.
- Recovery time varies depending on the extent of tendon debridement and whether additional procedures were required.
Outcomes
Before Surgery
- Persistent Achilles pain despite physiotherapy
- Pain with walking, running or stairs
- Stiffness, swelling or thickening of the tendon
- Reduced activity and exercise tolerance
After Surgery
- Reduced pain over time
- Improved tendon comfort and strength
- Increased walking and activity tolerance
- Gradual return to exercise
- Long-term improvement in most patients
Long term success
- Tendon healing continues for many months.
- Physiotherapy is crucial for a good outcome.
- Return to sport is gradual and tailored to symptoms.
- Most patients achieve meaningful pain relief and improved function.
Contact Us
Contact to arrange an appointment
Prof Mason has clinics at Spire Liverpool (weekly) and in Douglas, Isle of Man (every 3 months)
Cost -
Initial consultation - £250
Follow-up - £150
Prof Lyndon Mason
Spire Liverpool Hospital, 57 Greenbank Rd, Liverpool L18 1HQ, UK
Patient Liaison - Clare van de Waal Telephone - 07717580737 E-mail - CVDWclerical@outlook.com Website - <<https://liverpoolfootandankle.com/<<
Copyright © 2026 Prof Lyndon Mason - All Rights Reserved.