1. Introduction
Dromedary camels are of considerable economic importance due to their roles in the production of milk, meat, wool, and leather, as well as their use in camel racing in many countries. Maintaining their overall health is essential for optimizing productivity and ensuring the quality of milk and meat production [
1,
2,
3]. The camel’s pes is anatomically composed of the tarsal bones, metatarsals, and phalanges [
4]. In camels, the metatarsal region is formed by the fusion of the third and fourth metatarsal bones. Lameness affecting the distal limbs, commonly resulting from Achilles tendon laceration, rupture, or infection, requires prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment, routine veterinary monitoring, and proper care to ensure effective recovery [
5]. Because lameness is a significant problem in dairy animals with substantial economic consequences, rapid identification of the affected site is essential for successful management [
6]. Achilles tendon laceration or rupture is a severe, potentially life-threatening injury that has been reported in various farm animals and is associated with substantial economic losses. It is most commonly caused by sudden direct trauma from hard, sharp objects, such as wires or shovels, leading to either partial or complete disruption of the tendon [
7,
8]. A thorough evaluation of lame camels is essential to identify the underlying causes and contributing factors, as the diagnosis and treatment of this condition can be challenging [
9]. The Achilles tendon, formed from the tendons of several muscles and, in some species, with a minor contribution from the soleus, varies structurally among mammals but generally exhibits high tensile strength. In camels, it comprises fascial extensions from the gluteobiceps, gracilis, semitendinosus, gastrocnemius, and superficial digital flexor muscles [
9]. In cattle, the Achilles tendon is formed by the tendinous contributions of the gluteobiceps, semitendinosus, gastrocnemius, and superficial digital flexor muscles. In horses, it comprises several distinct tendinous components derived from the gastrocnemius, soleus, biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and superficial digital flexor (flexor digitorum superficialis) muscles [
10]. In dogs, the calcaneal (common calcaneal) tendon is formed by several musculotendinous units that converge at the level of the hock. These include the gastrocnemius tendon, the superficial digital flexor tendon, and a common tendon contributed by the biceps femoris, gracilis, and semitendinosus muscles. Notably, dogs lack a soleus muscle [
8]. In humans, the Achilles tendon is formed by the complex fusion of the tendons of the medial gastrocnemius, lateral gastrocnemius, and soleus muscles [
11]. Despite the widespread importance of camels, reports of Achilles tendon rupture in this species remain limited, and the diagnostic performance of radiography and ultrasonography as standalone, non-invasive modalities is not well established. To address this gap and facilitate more accurate diagnosis and informed clinical decision-making, this study aimed to characterize the clinical, radiographic, ultrasonographic, and anatomical features of Achilles tendon rupture in dromedary camels, thereby enhancing their practical application in veterinary practice.
3. Results
3.1. Anatomical Findings
In camels, the Achilles tendon originates immediately caudal to the stifle joint and consists of a complex assemblage of closely associated tendinous structures. It descends along the length of the tibia and inserts on the tuber calcanei, where all components converge. The superficial component is formed by the flattened tendon of the semitendinosus muscle (Musculus semitendinosus). Proximally, the semitendinosus tendon merges with the tendon of the lateral head of the gastrocnemius muscle, contributing to the formation of the Achilles tendon. From this junction, the tendon continues distally along the caudal surface of the tibia and ultimately inserts on the cranial aspect of the proximal calcaneal tuber (
Figure 1 and
Figure 2).
The gastrocnemius (Musculus gastrocnemius) and superficial digital flexor (Musculus flexor digitorum superficialis) tendons constitute the primary components of the camel Achilles tendon, which insert together on the calcaneal tuber. Beneath this principal layer lies a fascicular arrangement derived from the medial and lateral heads of the gastrocnemius, forming cranial, lateral, and medial subdivisions. The lateral head forms an intermediate layer, attaching partially to both sides of the tuber calcanei, whereas the tendon of the medial head lies deeper, positioned caudal to the contribution of the lateral head.
The superficial digital flexor (plantaris) tendon represents the deepest component of the Achilles tendon complex. It is partially continuous with the tendons of both gastrocnemius heads and is firmly attached to the caudal surface of the gastrocnemius tendon and the cranial aspect of the calcaneal tuber. Proximally, it is enclosed within the gastrocnemius muscle, and then descends along the caudal border of the gastrocnemius tendon. Tendinous bundles from its cranial and medial surfaces extend caudally, laterally, and cranially, whereas those from the cranial and lateral aspects course caudally, distally, and medially. Ultimately, all components converge at the calcaneal tuberosity, forming the common insertion of the Achilles (common calcaneal) tendon (
Figure 1 and
Figure 2).
The gastrocnemius muscle plays a fundamental role in both the formation and functional capacity of the Achilles tendon. Rather than merely attaching to the tendon, it actively contributes to its development by gradually transforming the muscle fibers of its medial and lateral heads into dense tendinous tissue. Functionally, the gastrocnemius is a key contributor to plantar flexion, facilitating limb propulsion during activities such as walking, running, and jumping, and plays an essential role in load distribution across the Achilles tendon.
In this study, no anatomical variations were observed among the dissected specimens, all of which were derived from the Mejhem breed, a breed reported to exhibit a higher predisposition to Achilles tendon injuries.
3.2. Clinical Findings
Among the 19 examined camels, 3 cases (15.79%) were diagnosed with complete Achilles tendon laceration (
Figure 3A). Five cases (26.31%) showed complete Achilles tendon rupture complicated by avulsion fracture of the calcaneal tuber (
Figure 3B and
Figure 4), whereas 11 cases (57.9%) exhibited partial (incomplete) rupture (
Table 1). Significant differences were observed among breeds, with Wadeh camels exhibiting a higher frequency of injury compared to Mejhem (
p < 0.05) and Asfar and Ashaal breeds (
p < 0.001) (
Figure 5A). Age was identified as a significant risk factor, as camels older than 2 years had a markedly increased risk (OR = 14.06; 95% CI: 2.8–26.2;
p < 0.001) (
Figure 5B). Similarly, sex showed a strong association, with males demonstrating a 28-fold higher risk compared to females (OR = 28.4; 95% CI: 5.4–12.6;
p < 0.001), (
Figure 5C). Additionally, uncomplicated cases were significantly more common than complicated ones (OR = 7.8; 95% CI: 1.8–28.6;
p < 0.01) (
Figure 5D). Regarding etiology, blunt trauma was identified as the predominant cause and occurred significantly more frequently than sharp trauma (
p < 0.001) (
Figure 5E). In contrast, duration of admission showed no significant association with injury occurrence (χ
2 = 4.7;
p = 0.19) (
Figure 5F). No significant difference was observed between right and left limb involvement (OR = 1.8; 95% CI: 0.5–6.7;
p > 0.05) (
Figure 5G). Concerning lesion type, rupture was significantly more common than laceration (OR = 28.4; 95% CI: 4.5–12.6;
p < 0.001) (
Figure 5H).
With respect to the anatomical structures involved, lesions affecting the superficial portion of the tendon complex were identified in 9 camels (47.37%), whereas deep tendon involvement was observed in 2 camels (10.53%). Percentages were calculated based on the total number of examined animals (n = 19).
Clinically, affected camels exhibited acute hindlimb lameness, characterized by reduced or absent weight-bearing on the affected limb. In the present study, most animals demonstrated grade 3 lameness, accompanied by moderate to severe swelling in the Achilles tendon region near the calcaneus. In cases of complete Achilles tendon laceration, the lesion site was clearly identified during clinical examination. In the absence of visible external wounds, careful palpation of the tendon region was required to detect discontinuity or abnormal tension, with ruptures typically located at or slightly proximal to the calcaneal insertion. Information regarding the cause of injury was obtained from owners when available. Reported causes included sharp trauma from objects such as barbed wire and blunt trauma associated with incidents such as vehicle accidents or overextension.
The interval between injury occurrence and presentation to the clinic ranged from 1 to 6 days, indicating that most cases were evaluated during the early post-traumatic period. Although Wadeh camels accounted for the majority of cases (12/19; 63.15%), this likely reflects their higher representation among animals that presented to the hospital; therefore, no definitive conclusion regarding breed predisposition can be drawn. Nevertheless, the condition was more commonly observed in Wadeh camels than in the other examined breeds (63.15% vs. 36.85%) (
Table 1).
3.3. Radiographic Findings
Craniocaudal, lateromedial, and flexed lateromedial radiographic projections consistently revealed marked soft tissue swelling surrounding the region of the ruptured Achilles tendon, most prominently located just proximal to the tuber calcanei in the majority of affected camels. The normal soft tissue outline of the caudal tarsal region was frequently distorted or obscured, with increased soft tissue opacity indicative of edema, hemorrhage, and inflammatory changes associated with tendon injury. Avulsion fractures of the calcaneus were identified in five camels. These were characterized by the presence of one or more detached bone fragments, ranging from small flecks to large, clearly displaced fragments adjacent to the tuber calcanei (
Figure 3B and
Figure 4). In such cases, the avulsion site appeared irregular, with loss of the normal smooth cortical contour. The displaced fragments were typically located proximally, corresponding to the direction of traction exerted by the ruptured tendon. In addition, widening of the gap between the fragment and the parent bone was observed, suggesting complete tendon rupture. These radiographic findings, particularly when combined with clinical and ultrasonographic assessments, provided valuable information regarding the severity of the injury and the presence of associated osseous involvement.
3.4. Ultrasonographic Findings
Ultrasonographic examination of the affected camels revealed consistent and characteristic alterations in the structure and echogenicity of the Achilles tendon. The affected segments appeared markedly swollen and edematous, with a heterogeneous echotexture compared to the normal, parallel fibrillar pattern observed in intact tendons. Prominent anechoic to hypoechoic regions were frequently detected within the tendon substance, representing fluid accumulation, hemorrhage, or disruption of tendon fibers. These changes were often accompanied by varying degrees of tendon thickening at both the proximal and distal margins. In most cases, there was a clear loss of the normal linear fibrillar architecture, with focal discontinuities and irregular fiber alignment. The margins of the ruptured tendon were frequently indistinct. In some animals, a hypoechoic gap was observed between the retracted tendon ends, indicating complete rupture. Peritendinous fluid accumulation and surrounding soft tissue edema were also noted in several cases, supporting the presence of acute injury.
In cases of complete rupture involving both superficial and deep components, ultrasonography demonstrated severe disruption of tendon continuity, characterized by extensive anechoic to hypoechoic areas, complete loss of the normal fibrillar pattern, and marked alteration of tendon echogenicity. In contrast, partial ruptures affecting either the superficial or deep components exhibited more localized changes, including focal hypoechoic areas, reduced echogenicity, and mild to moderate tendon thickening, while portions of the fibrillar structure remained intact (
Figure 6).
4. Discussion
The Achilles tendon is regarded as the strongest tendon in the body. It is defined by its insertion on the tuber calcanei and its continuity with the tendons that converge proximally into this common insertion. Functionally, it acts as an energy-efficient structure that supports rapid locomotion, enabling movements such as kicking and running, and serves as both a spring and a shock absorber during motion [
16]. Our findings are consistent with those of Szaro et al., 2009 [
17], who reported that all components of the Achilles tendon are interconnected. However, these results differ from those reported by Solano et al., 2015 [
6], who suggested that muscles such as the biceps portion of the gluteobiceps, articularis coxae, and gracilis contribute to the formation of the Achilles tendon. They reported that the tendon is formed by these muscles in addition to the semitendinosus, gastrocnemius, and superficial digital flexor. In contrast, our findings did not demonstrate any contribution from the biceps portion of the gluteobiceps, articularis coxae, or gracilis muscles.
In the present study, dissection of the Achilles tendon revealed the absence of the soleus muscle in all examined specimens, in contrast to the findings reported by Sadan, 2019 [
18], and Kirat, 2021 [
19], who reported the presence of this muscle in camels. In contrast, in horses, the gastrocnemius, superficial digital flexor, and soleus muscles all contribute to the formation of the Achilles tendon [
10,
20]. Our results contradict the descriptions provided by Smuts and Bezuidenhout, 1987 [
21], for camels, by Dyce et al., 2010 [
22], for domestic animals, and by Schreiber et al., 2024 [
23], for sheep; they reported that the Achilles tendon is composed of three distinct musculotendinous components: the gastrocnemius tendon (associated with the soleus muscle), the superficial digital flexor tendon, and the common calcaneal tendon formed by the tendons of the gracilis, biceps femoris, and semitendinosus muscles. However, our findings differ from theirs regarding the contribution of the gracilis and biceps femoris tendons to the formation of the common calcaneal tendon. The plantaris tendon has been reported to recover more than 90% of the energy stored during locomotion, contributing significantly to efficiency during both walking and running [
24]. Our observations differ from those reported by Budras et al., 2011 [
25], who reported that the flexor muscle does not contribute to the formation of the Achilles tendon and documented the presence of the soleus muscle as a component of the tendon in bovine species. However, our findings differ from these observations. Similarly, our results are inconsistent with those reported by Budras et al., 2007 [
26], who described the biceps femoris tendon as merging with the semitendinosus and gracilis tendons to insert on the calcaneal tuber. In contrast, our findings do not support the involvement of the biceps femoris tendon in this convergence. However, our results are consistent with the same authors’ observations in dogs, in which the semitendinosus muscle, located caudolaterally, inserts proximomedially on the Achilles tendon. Accurate anatomical identification of the tendons contributing to the common calcaneal tendon is essential for improving diagnostic accuracy and optimizing clinical outcomes [
24,
27,
28,
29]. Additionally, our findings agree with Gadallah et al., 2023 [
8], who reported no significant differences between live animals and cadaveric specimens. However, our findings do not fully support this observation. According to Malvankar and Khan, 2011 [
16], Achilles tendon rupture is generally attributed to excessive loading of a tensioned tendon, such as the loading that occurs during athletic activity. A thorough understanding of Achilles tendon anatomy is essential for the effective management of both acute and chronic tendon injuries [
11].
Achilles tendon laceration or rupture is a relatively common condition and represents a common indication for surgical intervention in camels. Despite its clinical importance, published data on the types, causes, and characteristics of Achilles tendon injuries in this species remain limited. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of clinical, radiographic, and ultrasonographic examinations in identifying this condition in dromedary camels. A notable breed-related variation in the occurrence of Achilles tendon rupture was observed, with Wadeh camels accounting for the highest proportion of cases (12/19; 63.16%) compared to 7/19 (36.84%) for other breeds. However, this higher frequency may reflect the greater prevalence of Wadeh camels in Saudi Arabia, likely due to their desirable productive and reproductive traits, rather than a true breed predisposition [
1,
30,
31].
Case history and physical examination are routinely employed in the diagnosis of Achilles tendon laceration or rupture in camels. However, radiography and ultrasonography represent valuable non-invasive imaging modalities that can assist in the diagnosis and differentiation of various types of Achilles tendon injuries, particularly when clinical findings are inconclusive. In the present study, the radiographic and ultrasonographic features of Achilles tendon rupture varied according to the type, location, and duration of the injury. These findings are consistent with those of previous studies, which have also reported variability in imaging characteristics depending on the nature and progression of the lesion [
8,
9,
23,
32].
Typical ultrasonographic features of tendon injury include focal disruption of the fibrillar pattern, loss of normal tendon architecture, and areas of reduced echogenicity. In the present study, echogenicity varied according to the type of Achilles tendon rupture: partial tears were characterized by anechoic to hypoechoic regions and thickening of the proximal or distal margins involving either the superficial or deep components of the tendon, whereas complete ruptures exhibited these changes in both components. These observations are consistent with previous reports, which have described similar ultrasonographic characteristics in tendon injuries [
9,
33,
34]. Radiographically, affected camels exhibited marked soft tissue swelling surrounding the ruptured tendon, particularly proximal to the calcaneal tuberosity. In some cases, avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuber were also observed. These findings are consistent with previous reports describing similar radiographic features associated with Achilles tendon injuries [
23].
Our results demonstrated that the Achilles tendon in camels is composed of three principal tendinous components: the gastrocnemius, superficial digital flexor, and semitendinosus muscles. In this study, three camels (15.79%) were diagnosed with complete Achilles tendon laceration, five cases (26.31%) exhibited complete rupture complicated by avulsion fracture of the calcaneal tuber, and eleven cases (57.9%) showed partial (incomplete) rupture. With respect to the anatomical structures involved, injuries affecting the superficial portion of the tendon complex were identified in nine camels (47.37%), whereas deep tendon involvement was observed in two camels (10.53%). Clinically, affected camels exhibited acute hindlimb lameness, characterized by non-weight-bearing or markedly reduced weight-bearing, ranging from grade 2 to grade 3, and accompanied by noticeable swelling of the tendon near the calcaneus. These findings are consistent with previous reports describing similar clinical and pathological manifestations associated with Achilles tendon rupture [
23]. In this study, Achilles tendon rupture was identified as a common surgical condition in camels, most frequently resulting from sharp trauma (e.g., barbed-wire injuries) or blunt trauma (e.g., road traffic accidents). Diagnosis of this condition can be challenging due to the limitations of physical examination alone. Consequently, radiography and ultrasonography are valuable, non-invasive imaging modalities that enable accurate assessment and differentiation of the various forms of Achilles tendon rupture. These findings are consistent with previous reports, which have emphasized the importance of advanced imaging techniques in the diagnosis of tendon injuries [
7,
9,
23].
Despite providing valuable clinical, imaging, and anatomical insights into Achilles tendon rupture in dromedary camels, this study has several limitations that should be considered when interpreting the findings. First, the study was based on cases presented to a single veterinary teaching hospital, which may introduce selection bias and may not fully represent the epidemiological distribution of the condition in the general camel population. Another limitation was the incomplete availability of detailed case histories for several animals, particularly regarding the exact cause of injury, physical activity level, workload, and participation in racing or other strenuous activities. Consequently, it was not possible to establish clear associations between Achilles tendon rupture and specific risk factors. Finally, the study focused primarily on diagnostic findings and anatomical characterization, and long-term clinical outcomes and treatment responses were not systematically evaluated. Future studies involving larger sample sizes, multicenter data collection, and comprehensive follow-up of treatment outcomes are warranted to provide a more complete understanding of Achilles tendon rupture in camels.
5. Conclusions
The present study provides an integrated clinical, radiographic, ultrasonographic, and anatomical characterization of Achilles tendon laceration and rupture in dromedary camels. Anatomical dissection demonstrated that the camel Achilles tendon is primarily formed by the tendons of the gastrocnemius, superficial digital flexor (plantaris), and semitendinosus muscles, which converge and insert on the tuber calcanei. Clinically and diagnostically, Achilles tendon injuries in camels were identified as complete lacerations or complete and incomplete ruptures, involving either the superficial or deep components of the tendon complex. Recognition of these variations is clinically important, as the extent and anatomical location of the injury influence the severity of lameness, interpretation of imaging findings, and selection of appropriate therapeutic or surgical management approaches.
Radiography proved valuable for identifying associated skeletal abnormalities, including soft tissue swelling and calcaneal avulsion fractures, whereas ultrasonography enabled detailed assessment of tendon fiber integrity, echogenicity, and the extent of structural disruption. Together, these imaging modalities provide a practical and reliable diagnostic approach for confirming Achilles tendon injuries and differentiating between types of tendon involvement. The findings of this study contribute clinically relevant insights that may assist veterinarians in improving diagnostic accuracy, guiding surgical planning, and better assessing the severity and prognosis of Achilles tendon injuries in dromedary camels.