From the Research
Treatment for a cut calf muscle that is severed in half involves immediate surgical repair to restore muscle function and prevent chronic weakness or re-injury, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Initial Assessment and Management
When a calf muscle is cut in half, it is essential to prioritize surgical intervention to minimize morbidity, mortality, and improve quality of life. The initial assessment should focus on the severity of the injury and the overall health of the patient.
Surgical Intervention
Surgical repair is necessary to restore the continuity of the muscle and tendon, allowing for proper healing and rehabilitation. This approach is supported by a study published in 2015, which highlights the importance of surgical intervention in avoiding early and late complications associated with complete muscle tears 2.
Post-Surgical Care
After surgery, the patient should follow a rehabilitation program that includes gentle stretching and progressive strengthening exercises, typically starting 1-2 weeks after injury, depending on the severity of the tear. Physical therapy is often necessary to regain range of motion, strength, and prevent re-injury.
Prevention of Complications
To prevent complications, such as infection or seroma, incisional negative pressure wound therapy (INPWT) may be considered, as it has been shown to decrease the incidence of infection and sero-haematoma formation in high-risk surgical incisions 3.
Key Principles of Rehabilitation
The rehabilitation program should be guided by key principles to optimize performance at return to play (RTP) while avoiding subsequent injury or recurrence, as outlined in a qualitative study of expert sports clinicians 1. These principles include a systematic approach to rehabilitation, ongoing monitoring of calf capacity, and responses to loading exposure.
Risk Factors for Re-Injury
It is essential to identify risk factors for re-injury, such as chronological age and previous history of calf strain, to develop individualized strategies for prevention 4. By prioritizing surgical intervention, post-surgical care, and rehabilitation, patients with a cut calf muscle can achieve optimal outcomes and minimize the risk of chronic weakness or re-injury.