Partial tear of the long digital extensor tendon in a dog

Abstract

The aim of this paper was to describe the clinical and sonographic findings of partial tear at the musculotendinous junction of the proximal long digital extensor tendon during the acute phase and one year after initial presentation. The dog presented with acute, moderate weight-bearing lameness of the right hind limb. During an orthopedic examination of the stifle, the dog expressed pain on extension and flexion of the right knee. Under general anesthesia, no instability was evident. Radiographic images suggested the presence of joint effusion in the right stifle. Ultrasonography revealed that the long digital extensor tendon was hyperechoic, surrounded by an anechoic effusion, and the muscle fibers were disorganized and interspersed with anechoic fluid. Clinical outcome was considered good after conservative treatment. The dog was re-evaluated approximately one year after treatment and did not present with any clinical signs.