I have a spoiled rotten,10 yr old neutered male Shih Tzu, named Kuro. He's also blind, but still my sweet baby!
Although it's only him and me now, there's a lot of talking around our house. I didn't realize he knows so many words! Some people say it's repetition, but I prefer to think he's that smart.......We moved to Michigan from Indiana 4 years ago, and for the first 7 years of Kuro's life, the only expense I had was vaccinations, grooming,and buying toys. ( Lots of toys)
But time passes on and age starts taking a toll, and he started having problems: bladder, tumor on paw,liver enzymes too high, dental work, eye problems,and for the past few months, skin problems.
Dr. Dhaliwal has done all of Kuro's surgeries, and worked with me on the other problems. He never loses his patience, and stays calm while I am asking my 100 questions .
Dr. Dhaliwal is definitely in the correct profession. It seems he has a passion for not only helping animals, but he takes every opportunity to learn new techniques so he can help them even more.
The staff is also very nice. They greet you with a smile, take the time to talk, explain meds,etc. and if Dr. D. doesn't call to check on Kuro after a procedure, the staff will, and that means a lot to me.
Michigan Avenue Animal Hospital is a caring place, and everyone makes sure your pet is given the best care. Whatever it takes to make you and your pet "HAPPY!"
Superficial Digital Flexor Tendon (SDFT) Luxation
The superficial digital flexor tendon forms the most superficial part of the calcaneal (Achilles) tendon and travels over the tuber calcanei as a flat tendon and then splits into branches for each toe. The action of the SDFT muscle/tendon is flexion of the digits, extension and fixation of the tarsus and flexion of the stifle joint. It has a firmre tinaculum on both the medial and lateral aspect of the calcaneus that maintains its position in the calcaneal groove.
What is the injury and howdoes it happen?
SDFT luxation occurs when there is a rupture to the medial or lateral retinaculem. It is most commonly associated with vigorous activity and a rotational force applied to the calcaneous. The medial retinaculem is less fibrous and therefore more prone to tear, although the injury can occur on either side.
How do you diagnose it?
Dogs will usually present with an acute onset of a weight bearing hind limb lameness.There is swelling at the tarsus most commonly at the proximal aspect ofthe calcaneus. With the tarsus in extension, the SDFT can be luxated to the side opposite the tear. Often there is a popping that can be palpated and/or heard when the tendon is luxated. Radiographic findings are soft tissue swelling at the tuber calcanei.
What is the recommended treatment?
Surgical repair of the tear in the retinaculum is advised. The skin incision is made on the side of the tear. The bursa is opened and fibrous tissue removed. The SDFT is reduced and stabilized by using non absorbable monofilament interrupted sutures placed from the edge of the tendon to the adjoining retinacular tissue. If the injury is long standing or there is not enough tissue to imbricate, sutures can be placed through bone tunnels drilled into the calcaneus. Conservative treatment consisting of rest +/‐ external stabilization with splint is not advised.
Post‐operative care
A lateral side splint with the tarsus in slight flexion is placed for 6‐8 weeks. Strict restis required while the pet is in a splint and for two weeks after splint removal. Pain management is provided as indicated.
Mandy previously had surgery at another veterinary hospital for the removal of a growth on her hind leg. For some unfortunate reason, the area became badly infected that the doctor's opinion was amputation to save Mandy's life.
At first, I was devastated about this news and wanted to get a second opinion. Therefore, I began seeking other veterinary hospitals that specialized in this area. However, for some reason Michigan Avenue Animal Hospital would constantly reappear on my list. I began to read the testimonies from his previous clients and suddenly a peaceful feeling came over me. Even though Dr. Dhaliwal's hospital was a great distant from Detroit to Ypsilanti Michigan, it was worth the ride.
Mandy's outcome was the same, yet the calming and patient manner in which my dog and I were given from Dr. Dhaliwal and his loving staff made a difference. Today, Mandy is still running, climbing and playing even with three legs and I am thankful for the time and quality of life I still share with her.
Crystal Matthews
August 2012
mianimalhospital@gmail.com