Achilles Tendon Repair in Dogs Using the Semitendinosus Muscle: Surgical Technique and Short-Term Outcome in Five Dogs

ABSTRACT
Objective—To describe augmentation of primary Achilles tendon repair using suture with a semitendinosus muscle flap and report outcome in 5 dogs.
Study Design—Prospective clinical study.
Animals—Dogs (n=5) with Achilles tendon rupture (n=6).
Methods—After tendon repair with #2 polypropylene in a 3-loop pulley suture pattern, the lateral one-half of the semitendinosus muscle was transected from the ischium, rotated distally then sutured with #2 polypropylene to the calcaneus in a 3-loop pulley pattern. The epitenon was sutured to the muscle flap fascia with interrupted sutures. All dogs had a bivalved cast for 2 weeks then a cranial splint for 2–6 weeks. Lameness scores (0=stands and walks normally to 4=non-weight-bearing lameness, plantigrade stance on affected pelvic limb) were determined every 2–3 weeks postoperatively for 12 weeks. Outcome was determined from telephone questionnaire of owners.
Results—Four had lameness scores of 0, the 5th had a score of 1 at 12 weeks. Three owners were very satisfied with outcome. Minor complications included cast sores (2 dogs), infection (2), and acute swelling (1); 1 major complication occurred (infection resulting in reoperation).
Conclusions—Semitendinosus flap augmentation resulted in early return to function without prolonged postoperative immobilization. Three dogs returned to full work/activity after repair.
Clinical Relevance—Augmentation of primary Achilles tendon repair with a semitendinosus flap can be considered in dogs with chronic rupture but further investigation of the long-term outcome using this technique is needed.