Calf Lengthening Surgery

There are different operations to correct calf tightness. These include: Medial head of gastrocnemius release (one part of the muscle) Gastrocnemius and/or soleus muscle aponeurosis release. Achilles tendon (heel cord) lengthening

Why Would They Be Done?

Sometimes calf tightness does not respond to stretches/physiotherapy. If the calf tightness is causing problems, then your surgeon may recommend that you consider an operation to lengthen one or more of the muscles/tendons in the calf.

Many foot problems can be related to the tightness of the calf muscles or Achilles tendon and often a calf lengthening operation is included as part of more extensive surgery. The choice of surgery depends on the type and severity of the problem. A medial head of gastrocnemius release (MHGR) is often performed for heel pain that is not responding to other treatments (Achilles tendinopathy or plantar fasciitis).

A gastrocnemius/soleus lengthening is often used when hind-foot deformities are associated with calf tightness. An Achilles tendon lengthening is usually used when there is a severe deformity

What Does Each Operation Involve?

Medial head of gastrocnemius release

A medial head of gastrocnemius release is done under general anaesthetic. A small cut is made behind the knee. The thick connective tissue cover of the muscle is allowed to stretch. Most patients are able to walk straight after surgery and do not need a plaster.

Gastrocnemius/Soleus aponeurotic lengthening (Strayer’s, Baker’s or Vulpius release)

The procedure is under general anaesthesia. A cut is made on the back of the calf and part of the muscle/connective tissue is cut and allowed to lengthen. There are many variations to this operation. It allows for more stretch that ‘MHGR’ above. Most patients are kept in plaster for up to 6 weeks after surgery.

Achilles tendon lengthening

This can be part of a more extensive operation and may be done in children as part of the treatment of club foot.

For more information on what to expect after surgery, please click the link for a detailed patient guide on this surgery.

Please note: appointment dates and times are subject to availability.

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