Modified semitendinosus muscle transposition to repair bilateral perineal hernias in dogs

Abstract

Perineal hernia (PH) resulting from a weakness and tear of the pelvic muscles of the diaphragm. Repair of the pelvic muscles by surgical repositioning is the curative treatment. To report a modified technique of semitendinosus muscle transposition for perineal hernias treatment. Eleven male dogs were prospectively enrolled to repair perineal hernias incorporating contralateral semitendinosus muscle transposition. The transected muscle was rotated medially through the subcutaneous tunnel ventral to the anus up to the opposite lateral perineum. Ten dogs were neutered and 01 was intact. The mean age was 10.45 years and the mean body weight was 18.52 kg. Five dogs had been previously submitted to perineal herniorrhaphy. Partial wound dehiscence occurred in two dogs. Postoperative complications related to the technique were presented in 7 of 11 dogs. Unilateral recurrence was detected in 8 of 11 dogs. The small number of samples, the absence of a control group and the heterogeneity of breeds make it difficult to reach significant conclusions. The transposition of the semitendinosus muscle through the subcutaneous tunnel is feasible to repair perineal hernias. The technique was unable to reduce complications and recurrence rates. However, provides evidence that can be used to repair cases of bilateral and ventral perineal hernias in dogs.