Summary
Objective: To describe a novel technique utilizing the flexor digitorum lateralis tendon to repair rupture of the common calcaneal tendon with a gap defect.
Clinical report: An eight-month-old male Domestic Shorthair cat with bilateral common calcaneal tendon
rupture secondary to severe thermal injury underwent bilateral common calcaneal tendon
repair performed in two stages. The first stage involved using the flexor digitorum lateralis tendon to reconstruct the common calcaneal tendon and a semitendinosus muscle flap
for improved blood supply. A calcaneotibial screw was used for immobilization of the
tarsocrural joint. The second surgery involved free skin grafting for complete wound
closure. Twelve weeks after the calcaneotibial screws were placed, the calcaneotibial
screws were removed and fibreglass splints were applied. The splints were removed
after two weeks.
Results: Full recovery took five months between the surgery and the final follow-up examination.
The cat had a functional gait with no lameness and was able to jump to a height of
approximately 75 cm.
Clinical significance: Use of the flexor digitorum lateralis tendon may be considered for repair of a common calcaneal tendon rupture when a gap
exists and traditional tendon lengthening techniques are not feasible.
Keywords
Cat - common calcaneal tendon rupture - flexor digitorum lateralis - flexor hallicus
longus - semitendinosus muscle flap
