Outcomes of 11 cats with Achilles tendon ( AT ) rupture repair treated with a synthetic ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight polyethylene ( UHMWPE )

Abstract

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.