Use of a Transarticular Tibiocalcaneal Locking Plate for Temporary Immobilization of the Talocrural Joint Following Surgical Repair of Achilles Tendon Rupture in Nine Dogs

Introduction: Several methods of immobilizing the talocrural joint in extension to relieve tension on the common calcaneal tendon tenorrhaphy has been described. Our objective was to evaluate the use of a transarticular tibiocalcaneal locking plate as a method of temporary immobilization of the talocrural joint to support primary tendon repair.

Materials and Methods: Nine dogs were presented with common calcaneal tendon rupture. A standard caudolateral approach was performed, and primary tendon repair was achieved using a three-loop pulley or locking-loop suture pattern. Stabilization of the talocrural joint in extension was achieved by the application of a medial tibiocalcaneal FIXIN precontoured plate (Intrauma S.p.a., Rivoli, TO). Radiographs were taken postoperatively, at 4 weeks and after implant removal at 6 weeks. All repairs were clinically evaluated at 1, 4, 6, and 12 weeks after surgery. Postoperative complications and degree of lameness were recorded.

Results: All dogs were males and ranged in age from 4 to 16 years old and their weights ranged from 8 to 45 kg. After 4 weeks no lameness was present at walk in eight cases, while in one case, a 3-degree lameness was present with clinical signs of local infection. Implant removal after 6 weeks has been performed in eight cases that were free from lameness at the 12 weeks of follow-up.

Discussion/Conclusion: Transarticular tibiocalcaneal locking plate for temporary immobilization of the talocrural joint appear to be an effective technique with comparable results to other reported techniques.

Acknowledgment: There was no proprietary interest or funding provided for this project.