Fascia lata flap and temporary tarsal immobilisation for treatment of lateral gastrocnemius head avulsion in a dog

Abstract

A 9‐year‐old male dog was diagnosed with lateral gastrocnemius head avulsion based on orthopaedic examination and diagnostic imaging. Anatomical reattachment was achieved using bone tunnels in the lateral femoral condyle with augmentation via an autogenous tensor fascia lata flap harvested from the ipsilateral thigh. Temporary tibio‐metatarsal plate fixation provided rigid immobilisation during early healing. Postoperative management included extracorporeal shockwave therapy and autologous conditioned plasma injections. Follow‐up at 6 and 8 weeks, then 1 and 1.5 years demonstrated progressive improvement and complete return to pre‐injury limb function. The successful outcome in this singular case illustrates how this multimodal strategy may represent an effective solution for complex high‐tension injuries.