Objective: To report the outcomes of cats treated for Achilles tendon (AT) rupture with a recently commercialized synthetic ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) implant and no transarticular fixation.
Study design: Retrospective multicenter study.
Animals: A total of 11 cats (13 limbs).
Methods: Medical records from seven veterinary centers were reviewed for cats undergoing AT repair with the Novaten implant between 2021 and 2024. Feline musculoskeletal pain index (FMPI) was used for long-term assessment. Lameness, posture, and pain were assessed at perioperative (0-3 months), short-term (3-6 months), and long-term (>12 months) intervals. Statistical analysis used non-parametric tests.
Results: A total of 13 limbs in 11 cats met the inclusion criteria. All injuries involved the tendino-osseous junction, with 7/13 (53.8%) complete ruptures. No intraoperative complications occurred. Postoperative external coaptation was used in 9/13 (69.2%) limbs (4/13 rigid splints, 5/13 soft padded) for a median duration of 6 weeks (range, 0-8 weeks). One calcaneal fracture due to implant malposition and one surgical site infection were reported at short-term follow-up. Long-term follow-up (median, 18.5 months; range, 12.1-33) showed 11/12 limbs achieving functional recovery and normal tarsal motion.
Conclusion: Repair of Achilles tendon rupture in cats using a UHMWPE implant without rigid immobilization was associated with restoration of functional limb use, normal tarsal range of motion at long-term follow-up, and a low incidence of postoperative complications in this case series.
Clinical significance: This technique may provide a reliable surgical option for cats with AT rupture, as it may minimize the need for external fixation or external coaptation and improve short-term recovery.
