Rupture of the gastrocnemius muscle at its distal musculotendinous junction: conservative treatment and outcomes in 11 dogs

Authors: Boyd NL, von Pfeil D, James DR, Kent M, Fearnside S, White JD
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 71, Issue 5, pp 275-281, Sep 2023
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Dog
Article class: Clinical Article

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Abstract:

Case history: Medical records from three veterinary referral centres and a university veterinary teaching hospital in Australia and the USA were reviewed to identify dogs with a diagnosis of distal gastrocnemius musculotendinous junction rupture (DGMJR) that were treated without surgery between 2007 and 2020.

Clinical and imaging findings: All dogs (n = 11) presented with unilateral, pelvic limb lameness and bruising, swelling or pain on palpation at the distal musculotendinous junction. The diagnosis was confirmed with ultrasound or MRI in six dogs; radiographs were used to excluded stifle and tarsus pathology in four dogs; and five dogs were diagnosed on physical examination findings.

Treatment and outcome: All dogs were managed conservatively, either with complete confinement alone (n = 10; median 9 weeks), external coaptation alone (n = 1), or a combination of both (n = 4). Sporting dogs (n = 7) were completely confined (median 22 weeks) for longer periods than companion dogs (n = 3; median 5 weeks).

A good to excellent outcome was achieved for all cases in this cohort. The seven sporting dogs achieved an excellent outcome; returning to their previous level of sport, with complete resolution of lameness and recovery of a normal tibiotarsal stance. The four companion dogs achieved a good outcome; returning to their previous level of activity but with persistently increased tibiotarsal standing angle compared to the contralateral limb.

Clinical relevance: Conservative treatment represents a viable treatment option for dogs with a rupture of the gastrocnemius muscle at its distal musculotendinous junction.

KEYWORDS: Gastrocnemius, musculotendinous, tear, conservative, non-surgical, sporting dogs

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