Achilles mechanism reconstruction in four dogs

Five Achilles mechanism reconstructions were performed in four dogs with chronic injury to the tendon. Following excision of degenerate tendon the area was reconstructed, in each case using peroneus brevis and peroneus longus tendon transpositions, lengthening of the gastrocnemius tendon and reinforcement with a free fascial strip graft. Post-operative support was provided in the form of a type II trans-articular external fixator for four to five weeks, followed by a splint or Robert Jones bandage for two to three weeks. The results in all of the dogs were good to excellent. One dog returned to full working capacity. Two dogs returned to unrestricted exercise without any observable lameness. One dog (bilateral injury) is sound but the owners have decided to limit the dog's access to unrestricted activity