Displacement of the tendon of the superficial digital flexor muscle in dogs: 10 cases (1983-1991).

Displacement of the tendon of the superficial digital flexor muscle was diagnosed in 9 dogs (10 tarsi). Four of 10 displacements occurred in Shetland Sheepdogs. All dogs had an acute onset of lameness with swelling over the proximal end of the tuber calcanei. Lateral displacement occurred in 8 tarsi and medial displacement in 2 tarsi. Nonsurgical treatment (exercise restriction, bandaging, and administration of anti-inflammatory medication) was ineffective in the 5 dogs in which it was attempted. Surgical reconstruction of the supporting soft tissues resulted in return to normal function in 9 cases available for follow-up evaluation.