Gastrocnemius dissection.

Use hemostats to retract the skin from the ankle up to the hip, exposing the underlying gastrocnemius muscle and Achilles tendon.

Pin the foot in place using a pin, then carefully remove the fat pad overlying the gastrocnemius by snipping underneath and at the sides.

Insert scissors beneath the Achilles tendon and open them to stretch and separate the tendon from the underlying muscle body.

Snip the Achilles tendon at its distal end near the ankle to free the gastrocnemius from the lower leg.

Lift the gastrocnemius and check for the soleus muscle adhering to it. If present, carefully remove it to isolate the gastrocnemius.

Snip the gastrocnemius perpendicular to the bone at its proximal point of origin to completely free the muscle.