Repair of the Achilles mechanism in a miniature horse

The equine Achilles tendon is composed of the gastrocnemius tendon (GT), the tarsal tendon of biceps femurs, semitendinosus and gracilis muscles, superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and tendon of the soles muscle. These structures form a complex tendon mechanism (Achilles mechanism). The Achilles mechanism is part of the reciprocal apparatus of the hindlimb which locks the tarsus when the stifle is locked during the weight bearing stance. Rupture of the gastrocnemius muscle and disruption of the SDFT at its origin have been reported in foals during strenuous effort to stop. Laceration of the Achilles tendon in adult have been described but large extensive tendon loss are described only in man after a motor accident. This report described the successful surgical management to manage un unusual case of Achilles tendon injury, associated to extensive tissue loss as a consequence of a bite wound in a miniature horse.