Objective: This study aimed to evaluate surgical management of superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) luxation by modifying the morphology of the calcaneal tuberosity to (1) reduce the risk of recurrent luxation and (2) challenge the need for tarsal joint immobilization postoperatively.
Study design: Prospective observational study.
Sample population: A total of 11 surgeries in nine client-owned dogs.
Methods: Dogs with SDFT luxation and no concurrent disease underwent modified block recession calcaneoplasty without joint immobilization. Follow-up at 6 weeks and 12 months included pressure-sensitive walkway analysis, ultrasonography, and computed tomography.
Results: A total of 11 limbs in nine dogs were treated using the described technique. All achieved full function at 12 months, with the symmetry index improving from 0.20 ± 0.13 preoperatively to 0.05 ± 0.03 at long-term follow-up (p = .03). Five complications occurred (45% overall): two major (18%) requiring revision surgery and three minor (27%) resolving without intervention.
Conclusion: The modified block recession calcaneoplasty without subsequent tarsal joint immobilization led to a significantly improved symmetry index ratio and clinical function at the long-term follow-up compared with preoperative values. No recurrent luxation occurred except one case that suffered fracture of the medial wall of the calcaneal tuberosity. This was successfully revised and no further reluxation occurred.
Clinical significance: The modified block recession calcaneoplasty technique can be considered a complement to previously described surgical methods for treatment of SDFT luxation in dogs.
