Canine distal hindlimb soft tissue sarcoma--a novel approach to surgical defect closure

A 10-year-old, male, neutered whippet was presented with a soft tissue mass located on the medial aspect of the distal right tibia. The mass was 4 cm in diameter and of two months duration. Recent biopsy by the referring veterinarian, prompted by noticeable enlargement, identified the mass as a soft tissue sarcoma. Staging assessments did not reveal any evidence of metastases. Marginal excision was performed. The resultant defect was closed primarily by the creation of a bipedicle flap on the distal caudo-lateral aspect of the crus to enclose the Achilles tendon separately, leaving a defect between the Achilles tendon and the tibia. Postoperative management entailed support dressings and exercise restriction. Complete wound healing was attained three weeks postoperatively with excellent return of function. No recurrence was noted at eight months post-resection.