Use of a single pedicle advancement flap with a transarticular external skeletal fixation for chronic calcaneal wound management in two cats.

Abstract

Case series summary: Medical records of two cats with chronic calcaneal wounds, managed using a single pedicle advancement flap combined with transarticular external skeletal fixation (TESF), were reviewed. Clinical presentation, surgical technique, and short- and long-term follow-up were documented. Both cats presented with chronic, non-healing wounds over the calcaneal tuberosities. After surgical debridement, a single pedicle advancement flap was harvested from the lateral distal tibia and sutured over the wound. A type I TESF using epoxy resin as the connecting bars was applied medially to stabilize the joint. In both cases, complete wound healing was achieved.

Relevance and novel information: These two cases demonstrate the successful use of a single pedicle advancement flap combined with a type I TESF for managing chronic calcaneal wounds in cats. The technique reduces flap tension and may enhance healing outcomes in anatomically difficult regions. This approach may be beneficial for treating chronic wounds over bony prominences in cats.