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Intra-articular stabilization of a dog stifle with polyester thread: an ex vivo evaluation

Estabilização intra-articular de joelho de cães com fio de poliéster - avaliação ex vivo

ABSTRACT:

The incidence of cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR) in dogs is high, which is considered the main arthropathy in the species. Once diagnosed, surgical stabilization is recommended and different treatments are categorized as intracapsular, extracapsular, and osteotomies. There is still no consensus regarding the most optimal method of stabilization, and some studies have attempted to create or improve existing techniques, making them more effective. This study presented an intra-articular stifle stabilization technique using a synthetic polyester implant using 32 anatomical specimens from canine cadavers, which were separated by weight into two groups. The drawer movement was analyzed at three timepoints: intact cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), dissected ligament, and after surgical stabilization using the proposed technique. Results showed a mean cranial displacement of the tibia relative to the femur of 0.61 ± 0.08 millimeters before dissection (mm), 2.61 ± 0.08 mm after dissection, and 0.68 ± 0.08 mm after surgical stabilization (P < 0.01). In conclusion, the intra-articular stabilization technique with polyester thread was effective in stabilizing ex vivo dog stifles after CCL dissection at the immediate postoperative period.

Key words:
arthropathy; ligament injury; therapeutics; canine

RESUMO:

A incidência de ruptura do ligamento cruzado cranial (RLCCr) em cães é alta, sendo considerada a principal artropatia na espécie. Uma vez diagnosticada, a estabilização cirúrgica é recomendada e diversos autores indicam diferentes tratamentos, sendo divididos em intracapsulares, extracapsulares e osteotomias. Ainda não há consenso sobre a melhor forma de estabilização e estudos tem sido desenvolvidos buscando criar ou aprimorar técnicas existentes, tornando-as mais eficazes. O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar técnica de estabilização intra-articular de joelho, utilizando implante sintético de poliéster. Para isso, 32 peças anatômicas oriundas de cadáveres caninos foram separadas em dois grupos, conforme o peso do animal. Analisamos o movimento de gaveta, em três momentos: ligamento cruzado cranial (LCCr) íntegro, ligamento desmotomizado e pós estabilização cirúrgica pela técnica proposta. Os resultados demonstram deslocamento cranial médio da tíbia em relação ao fêmur antes da desmotomia de 0,61 ± 0,08 milímetros (mm), 2,61 ± 0,08 mm após a desmotomia e 0,68 ± 0,08 mm após estabilização cirúrgica (P < 0.01). Concluímos que, no momento pós-cirúrgico imediato, a técnica de estabilização intra-articular com fio de poliéster é eficaz em estabilizar a articulação de modelo ex vivo de cães após desmotomia do LCCr.

Palavras-chave:
artropatia; lesão ligamentar; terapêutica; canino

INTRODUCTION:

The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) prevents cranial movement of the tibia relative to the femur, internal rotation of the tibia, and stifle hyperextension (DECAMP et al., 2016DECAMP, C. E. et al. Brinker, Piermattei and Flo’s Handbook of Small Animal Orthopedics and Fracture Repair. 5ª ed. St. Louis, Missouri: Saunders Elsevier, 2016. 868p.). It is considered the main stabilizer of this joint (NANDA & HANS, 2019NANDA, A.; HANS, E, C. Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy for cranial cruciate ligament rupture in canines: patient selection and reported outcomes. Veterinary Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), v.10, p.249-255, 2019. Available from: <Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6938195/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.2147/VMRR.S204321.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/article...
), and function loss results in inevitable joint destabilization, with cranial tibial translation relative to the femoral condyles and subsequent osteoarthritis (WITSBERGER et al., 2008WITSBERGER, T. H. et al. Prevalence of and risk factors for hip dysplasia and cranial cruciate ligament deficiency in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. v.232, n.12, p.1818-1824, 2008. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18598150/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.2460/javma.232.12.1818.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18598150...
).

Despite several studies on cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR), the pathogenesis was not fully understood in the past (HAYASHI et al., 2003HAYASHI, K. et al. Histologic changes in ruptured canine cranial cruciate ligament. Veterinary Surgery, v.32, n.3, p.269-277, 2003. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12784204/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1053/jvet.2003.50023.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12784204...
). According to VASSEUR (2003VASSEUR, P. B. Stifle joint. In: SLATTER, D. Textbook of Small Animal Surgery. 3. ed. Elsevier Science, Philadelphia, 2003. p.2090-2133.), this rupture occurred when joint forces exceeded the tension capacity of the ligament, either intact or weakened by chronic degeneration. However, more recently, GRIFFON (2010GRIFFON, D. J. A review of the pathogenesis of canine cranial cruciate ligament disease as a basis for future preventive strategies. Veterinary Surgery, v.39, n.4, p.399-409, 2010. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20345536/ >. Accessed: May, 15, 2022. doi: 10.1111/j.1532-950x.2010.00654.x.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20345536...
) and ICHINOHE et al. (2015ICHINOHE, T. et al. Histological and immunohistological analysis of degenerative changes in the cranial cruciate ligament in a canine model of excessive tibial plateau angle. Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology: V.C.O.T, v.28, n.4, p.240-249, 2015. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25998226/ >. Accessed: May, 15, 2022. doi: 10.3415/vcot-14-08-0128.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25998226...
) reported that the causes are interconnected, as the ligament is more susceptible to injury when weakened by degeneration. They also highlighted that the high incidence of CCL failure is often preceded by underlying causes of premature cruciate ligament degeneration. Rupture may be complete, with clear or partial instability to a lesser degree. In both cases, untreated animals present joint changes within a few weeks and severe changes within a few months (DECAMP et al., 2016DECAMP, C. E. et al. Brinker, Piermattei and Flo’s Handbook of Small Animal Orthopedics and Fracture Repair. 5ª ed. St. Louis, Missouri: Saunders Elsevier, 2016. 868p.).

Several techniques have been reported for surgical correction in dogs, including intra- or extra-articular procedures and osteotomies (NELSON et al., 2013NELSON, S. A. et al. Long-term functional outcome of tibial plateau leveling osteotomy versus extracapsular repair in a heterogeneous population of dogs. Veterinary Surgery, v.42, n.1, p.38-50, 2013. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23153073/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1111/j.1532-950X.2012.01052.x.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23153073...
; DECAMP et al., 2016DECAMP, C. E. et al. Brinker, Piermattei and Flo’s Handbook of Small Animal Orthopedics and Fracture Repair. 5ª ed. St. Louis, Missouri: Saunders Elsevier, 2016. 868p.; SPINELLA et al., 2021SPINELLA, G. et al. Cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs: review on biomechanics, etiopathogenetic factors and rehabilitation. Veterinary Sciences, v.8, n.9, p.186, 2021. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34564580/ >. Accessed: May, 15, 2022. doi: 10.3390/vetsci8090186.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34564580...
). However, no current surgical technique prevents/decreases/ceases the onset or progression of degenerative joint disease (DJD), which is expected to develop less or at a slower rate with surgical stabilization than without treatment (DECAMP et al., 2016DECAMP, C. E. et al. Brinker, Piermattei and Flo’s Handbook of Small Animal Orthopedics and Fracture Repair. 5ª ed. St. Louis, Missouri: Saunders Elsevier, 2016. 868p.).

The tibial plateau leveling osteotomy technique, described by SLOCUM & SLOCUM (1993SLOCUM, B.; SLOCUM, T. D. Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy for repair of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in the canine.The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice, v.23, n.4, p.777-795, 1993. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8337790/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1016/s0195-5616(93)50082-7.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8337790/...
), is one of the most used, which is the preferred treatment option by current surgeons (VON PFEIL et al.,2018VON PFEIL, D. J. F. et al. Results of a survey of Veterinary Orthopedic Society members on the preferred method for treating cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs weighing more than 15 kilograms (33 pounds). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, v.253, n.5, p.586-597, 2018. Available from: <Available from: https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/253/5/javma.253.5.586.xml >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.2460/javma.253.5.586.
https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journ...
). However, it requires good radiological studies of the joint, in addition to special equipment and materials (SLOCUM & SLOCUM, 1993SLOCUM, B.; SLOCUM, T. D. Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy for repair of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in the canine.The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice, v.23, n.4, p.777-795, 1993. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8337790/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1016/s0195-5616(93)50082-7.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8337790/...
; TATARUNAS et al., 2008TATARUNAS, A. C. et al. Tibial plato leveling osteotomy. Semina: Ciências Agrárias. v.29. n.3. p.685-692, 2008. Available from: <Available from: https://www.redalyc.org/pdf/4457/445744089024.pdf >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021.
https://www.redalyc.org/pdf/4457/4457440...
).

Intra-articular reconstruction consists of anatomically replacing the CCL by inserting autogenous tissue or synthetic material through holes previously drilled in the femur and/or tibia (TATARUNAS & MATERA, 2005TATARUNAS, A. C.; MATERA, J. M. Possibilidades de tratamento da ruptura do ligamento cruzado cranial no cão. Revista de Educação Continuada em Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia do CRMV-SP. v.8, n.1, p.26-37, 2005. Available from: <Available from: https://www.revistamvez-crmvsp.com.br/index.php/recmvz/article/view/3175 >. Accessed: May, 15, 2022. doi: 10.36440/recmvz.v8i1.3175.
https://www.revistamvez-crmvsp.com.br/in...
). An in vitro examination of several methods indicated that intra-articular repair results in closer-to-normal joint motion than extra-articular techniques (DECAMP et al., 2016DECAMP, C. E. et al. Brinker, Piermattei and Flo’s Handbook of Small Animal Orthopedics and Fracture Repair. 5ª ed. St. Louis, Missouri: Saunders Elsevier, 2016. 868p.), as the implant more accurately simulates the CCL position and biology (BARNHART, 2016BARNHART, M. D. et al. Evaluation of an intra-articular synthetic ligament for treatment of cranial cruciate ligament disease in dogs: a six-month prospective clinical trial. Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology, v.29, n.6, p.491-498, 2016. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27709221/ >. Accessed: May, 15, 2022. doi: 10.3415/vcot-15-12-0206.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27709221...
).

The intra-articular stabilization technique proposed by MÜLLER et al. (2010MÜLLER, D. C. M. et al. Synthetic implant as a stabilizer link, after desmotomy of the cruciate ligaments in dogs: proposition technique. Ciência Rural, v.40, n.6, p.1327-1334, 2010. Available from: <Available from: https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/fLQqRSrm6rFpMkQ77WM4rpS/?lang=pt#ModalArticles >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1590/S0103-84782010000600014.
https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/fLQqRSrm6rF...
) provides good resistance and partially stabilizes joints with both cruciate ligaments ruptured using bone tunnels and polypropylene mesh. With this, there is a minimal cranial drawer movement that allows joint degeneration progression. Thus, intra-articular techniques may fail to restore normal stifle kinematics in dogs due to improper graft choice and incorrect tunnel location, especially when using bone tunnels (BISKUP & CONZEMIUS, 2018BISKUP, J. J.; CONZEMIUS, M. G. Intra-articular repair for cranial cruciate ligament rupture in the dog. In: MUIR, P. Advances in the Canine Cranial Cruciate Ligament. 2. ed. Hoboken: Wiley-Blackwell, 2018, Cap.26, p.201-216. Available from: <Available from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/9781119261728.ch26 >. Accessed: May, 15, 2022. doi: 10.1002/9781119261728.ch26.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1...
).

The present study proposed a new approach for intra-articular femorotibial patellar stabilization using a synthetic surgical polyester implant, based on a technique modification described by MÜLLER et al. (2010MÜLLER, D. C. M. et al. Synthetic implant as a stabilizer link, after desmotomy of the cruciate ligaments in dogs: proposition technique. Ciência Rural, v.40, n.6, p.1327-1334, 2010. Available from: <Available from: https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/fLQqRSrm6rFpMkQ77WM4rpS/?lang=pt#ModalArticles >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1590/S0103-84782010000600014.
https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/fLQqRSrm6rF...
). For this purpose, the implant was reduced in size and diameter, joint perforations were reduced, and isometric points were searched for CCL replacement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study analyzed pelvic limbs (left and right) of adult (≥12 months old) cadaver dogs (Canis familiaris Linnaeus, 1758) whose cause of death was not related to orthopedic conditions from the University Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Santa Maria. The limbs were sectioned at the hip joint, presenting no macroscopic anatomical changes. Both pelvic limbs were excluded from the study when the femorotibial patellar joint presented DJD during the procedures or in case of previous CCLR. Thus, 32 pelvic limbs from 16 dog cadavers were selected.

The anatomical specimens were distributed into two experimental groups (G1 and G2), each group containing 16 pelvic limbs. G1 was composed of specimens from animals with ≤ 15 kg of body weight (7.73 ± 3.09 Kg) and G2 was composed of specimens from animals with > 15 kg of body weight (22.43 ± 4.42 Kg). The sample included the same number of left and right pelvic limbs (16 each), with no distinction between sexes and breeds to mimic the reality of treating patients diagnosed with CCLR.

After selection, the anatomical specimens were refrigerated (7 °C) for 24-36 h, frozen in a horizontal freezer (-20 °C), and thawed in a climate-controlled environment (24 °C) 24 h before the procedures. After thawing, the specimens were washed in running water and 4% chlorhexidine digluconate solution (Riohex®, Rioquímica, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil) to remove dirt and reduce the microbiota. The specimens were widely shaved on the entire femorotibial patellar joint.

Standardized drawer movement testing

The standardized drawer movement test was based on the study by KEMPER et al. (2013KEMPER, B. et al. Drawer movement in canine knees undergoing extracapsular stabilization after cranial cruciate ligament rupture in vitro. Ciência Rural, v.43, n.6, p.1096-1101, 2013. Available from: <Available from: https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/45QFW7YyJTY78tM4pJy96hF/?format=html# >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1590/S0103-84782013005000063.
https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/45QFW7YyJTY...
) and consisted of a lateral parapatellar incision, as described by LATORRE et al. (2012LATORRE, R. et al. Atlas de Ortopedia em Cães e Gatos, MedVet, São Paulo, 2012. 265p.), and localization of the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) (Figure 1A). Subsequently, two 1.0-mm Kirschner wires (Cão Médica®, Campinas, SP, Brazil) were inserted, one in the proximal region (in the femur) and the other in the distal region (in the tibia) of the LCL insertion (Figure 1B). These wires were used as references to measure tibial displacement relative to the femur in the cranial drawer movement.

Figure 1
Lateral collateral ligament location (A). Placement of a Kirschner wire in each CCL insertion (one in the femur and another in the tibia) (B). Positioning of the anatomical specimen at a 135° angle using a goniometer (C). Drawer sign test of the tibia in relation to the femur to verify the degree of displacement (in mm) using a closed pachymeter at right angles to the CCL (guided by the previously inserted 1.0-mm Kirschner wires) (D). Source: Personal file.

To standardize the study, all surgical specimens were positioned with the medial side on the surgical table, and a 20-cm goniometer (Fibra Cirúrgica®, Joinville, SC, Brazil) was used to angle the joint at 135° (femur in relation to tibia) (Figure 1C). A caliper (MTX®, ToolsWorld, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil) closed in a right angle to the LCL (guided by the previously inserted 1.0-mm Kirschner wire) was used to test the tibial cranial drawer movement in relation to the femur in order to read the distance between wires (Figure 1D). This displacement was the caliper drag caused by the wire (in millimeters) after the test was performed. Measurements were repeated three times at all analyzed times (intact CCL, ruptured [dissected] CCL, and reconstructed CCL) and the arithmetic mean of the three readings was considered. All measurements were performed by the same evaluator and filmed using the same equipment, at a standardized distance, to evaluate the results.

After preparation of the anatomical specimens and reading of the drawer sign test with intact CCL, the femorotibial patellar join underwent arthrotomy followed by medial dislocation of the patella and CCL identification. The cranio-medial and caudo-lateral bands were excised using a scalpelblade 11, completely sectioning the ligament. The patella was anatomically repositioned, the joint capsule was sutured with mononylon (Atramat® Nylon, Atramat, Mexico City, Mexico) in a single continuous pattern, and the drawer motion test was performed again as described above.

Joint stabilization

Joint stabilization was performed based on a modification of the technique described by MÜLLER et al. (2010MÜLLER, D. C. M. et al. Synthetic implant as a stabilizer link, after desmotomy of the cruciate ligaments in dogs: proposition technique. Ciência Rural, v.40, n.6, p.1327-1334, 2010. Available from: <Available from: https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/fLQqRSrm6rFpMkQ77WM4rpS/?lang=pt#ModalArticles >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1590/S0103-84782010000600014.
https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/fLQqRSrm6rF...
). The proposed procedure consisted of joint capsule opening, medial dislocation of the patella, joint inspection, and removal of the cranial fragment of the sectioned CCL. The implant was fixed by transverse drilling of the distal femoral diaphysis in the latero-medial direction, approximately 10 mm distant from the femoral trochlea, measured using a Castroviejo marker (Cão Médica®, Campinas, SP, Brazil) with a 1.5-mm orthopedic drill bit (Cão Médica®, Campinas, SP, Brazil), through which a folded n. 2 cerclage wire (Atramat® Stainless Steel, Atramat, Mexico City, Mexico) was passed. Polyester thread (Sertix®, Shalon, Goiânia, GO, Brazil) was anchored through the loop formed on the lateral side, while the ends of the cerclage thread returned, one dorsal and the other ventral to the femur, being closed over the implant.

The polyester thread was passed between the lateral and medial condyles of the femur using instruments developed to facilitate surgery (Figure 2A), until intra-articular emergence (Figure 2B). For a better understanding, passage of the intra-articular wire and the use of the instruments are shown in a polymer-printed articular bone model (Figure 2C) (Figure 2D). G1 limbs received n. 2 non-absorbable surgical polyester multifilament (Sertix® Polyester, Shalon, Goiânia, GO, Brazil) and G2 limbs received the same thread, but in size n. 5 (same manufacturer).

Figure 2
Instruments developed to facilitate surgical execution and details of the blunt tip with a hole for passing the surgical thread (A). Use of the instrument to pass the polyester thread between the lateral and medial condyles of the femur until intra-articular emersion (B). For a better understanding, the instruments used for polyester suture passage through the femoral condyles in a polymer-printed articular bone model (Nacional Ossos®, Code AV252D). Lateral image of the joint (C). Caudal image of the joint (D). Source: Personal file.

The proximal tibia was perforated in the center-medial direction (between the CCL insertion and the tibial crest) with a 2-mm drill (Cão Médica®, Campinas, SP, Brazil), avoiding the menisci; and subsequently, passing the folded polyester thread through the bone tunnel. After the patella was returned to the trochlear groove and the articular capsule was sutured with mononylon (Atramat® Nylon, Atramat, Mexico City, Mexico) in a simple continuous pattern, the proximal tibial metaphysis was perforated twice with a 1.5-mm drill in the latero-medial direction with a 5-mm distance between perforations. One of the polyester threads was passed through the proximal perforation in the medial-lateral direction and then returned through the other perforation (lateral-medial). The femorotibial patellar joint was placed at 135°, followed by a minimal lateral rotation. In this position, the polyester thread was occluded with its own ends. For a better understanding, the technique is presented in a polymer-printed articular bone model (Figure 3). After the procedure, the measurements were repeated using the standardized drawer movement test.

Figure 3
Technique performed in an articular bone model printed in polymer (Nacional Ossos®, Code AV252D). Lateral image of the joint (A). Caudal image of the joint (B). Oblique cranial image of the joint (C). Source: Personal file.

Statistical analysis

The Shapiro-Wilk normality test was performed, and the analysis of variance considered the group (light [≤15 kg] and heavy [>15 kg]), limb location (right and left), time of the procedure (before rupture, after rupture, and after surgical reconstruction) and its interactions as fixed effects, and the animals (canine cadavers) and the residue as random effects, using the MIXED procedure. A covariance structure selection test was performed using the Bayesian information criterion. In case of differences, the means were compared using the lsmeans function adjusted for the Tukey’s test. Power analysis was performed using the POWER procedure. The SAS® statistical software version Studio (SAS Institute Inc., São Paulo, SP, Brazil) was used for all statistical analyses. Differences were considered significant when P < 0.05. Sample sufficiency was proven by the power analysis, which showed probability values above 0.99 for the variable drawer sign response.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:

Results showed that joint stability after the proposed surgical procedure is equal to the stability before ligament rupture, regardless of the animal weight (Figure 4) (Table 1). This may be related to the good results previously obtained by MÜLLER et al. (2010MÜLLER, D. C. M. et al. Synthetic implant as a stabilizer link, after desmotomy of the cruciate ligaments in dogs: proposition technique. Ciência Rural, v.40, n.6, p.1327-1334, 2010. Available from: <Available from: https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/fLQqRSrm6rFpMkQ77WM4rpS/?lang=pt#ModalArticles >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1590/S0103-84782010000600014.
https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/fLQqRSrm6rF...
) and VOGEL et al. (2020VOGEL, L. W. et al. Fio de poliéster para reconstrução intracapsular do ligamento cruzado cranial e caudal em um gato. Pubvet, v.14. n.7. p.1-6, 2020. Available from: <Available from: https://www.pubvet.com.br/artigo/7067/fio-de-polieacutester-para-reconstruccedilatildeo-intracapsular-do-ligamento-cruzado-cranial-e-caudal-em-um-gato >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.31533/pubvet.v14n7a619.1-6.
https://www.pubvet.com.br/artigo/7067/fi...
). Comparatively, the proposed technique has the advantage of replacing the 0.5-cm-thick polypropylene mesh and the large-caliber bone tunnel drilling, both described in the original technique (MÜLLER et al., 2010MÜLLER, D. C. M. et al. Synthetic implant as a stabilizer link, after desmotomy of the cruciate ligaments in dogs: proposition technique. Ciência Rural, v.40, n.6, p.1327-1334, 2010. Available from: <Available from: https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/fLQqRSrm6rFpMkQ77WM4rpS/?lang=pt#ModalArticles >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1590/S0103-84782010000600014.
https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/fLQqRSrm6rF...
) with a surgical polyester thread, which has excellent low-caliber strength (ABNT, 2003ABNT. Associação Brasileira de Normas Técnicas. NBR 13904: Fios para sutura cirúrgica. Rio de Janeiro. 2003. 15p. Online. Available from: <Available from: https://www.abntcatalogo.com.br/norma.aspx?ID=2297 >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021.
https://www.abntcatalogo.com.br/norma.as...
), decreasing implant thickness, suppressing one perforation, and reducing the tibial bone tunnel caliber.

Figure 4
Drawer movement in the different procedures for each group. There is no significant drawer movement difference between the pre- and postoperative moments in the groups. *indicates significant difference. Source: The author.

Table 1
Cranial drawer movement in canine cadavers by group, limb location, and time of the procedure.

VOGEL et al. (2020VOGEL, L. W. et al. Fio de poliéster para reconstrução intracapsular do ligamento cruzado cranial e caudal em um gato. Pubvet, v.14. n.7. p.1-6, 2020. Available from: <Available from: https://www.pubvet.com.br/artigo/7067/fio-de-polieacutester-para-reconstruccedilatildeo-intracapsular-do-ligamento-cruzado-cranial-e-caudal-em-um-gato >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.31533/pubvet.v14n7a619.1-6.
https://www.pubvet.com.br/artigo/7067/fi...
) implemented a similar technique, using surgical polyester thread as an intra-articular implant in cranial and caudal cruciate ligament rupture in a cat to neutralize the tibial drawer movement. Intra-articular patellar tendon grafting has been the gold standard surgical treatment for anterior (cranial) cruciate ligament rupture in humans since 2008 (MATIOLA, 2022MATIOLA, I. R. Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using patellar tendon graft: review of clinical trials.International Journal of Health Management Review, v.8, n.1, 2022. Available from: <Available from: https://ejitec.emnuvens.com.br/ijhmreview/article/view/305 >. Accessed: Mar. 01, 2022. doi: 10.37497/ijhmreview.v8i1.305.
https://ejitec.emnuvens.com.br/ijhmrevie...
), in contrast to veterinary medicine, in which joints are stabilized using osteotomies and extra-articular sutures to correct CCLR (DUERR et al., 2014DUERR, F. M. et al. Treatment of canine cranial cruciate ligament disease. A survey of ACVS Diplomates and primary care veterinarians. Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology: V.C.O.T., v.27. n.6. p.478-483, 2014. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25328024/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.3415/VCOT-14-03-0047.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25328024...
). The human tibial plateau has a natural angulation between 7° and 10° (MOZELLA et al., 2012MOZELLA, A. P. et al. Assessment of tibial slope angle and patellar height after medial-opening tibial osteotomy. Revista Brasileira de Ortopedia, v.47, n.4, p.441-445, 2012. Available from: <Available from: https://www.scielo.br/j/rbort/a/fqwYnL8mhsCkVV4sNzhcfsL/?lang=pt#ModalArticles >. Accessed: May, 20, 2022. doi: 10.1590/S0102-36162012000400006.
https://www.scielo.br/j/rbort/a/fqwYnL8m...
), forming an angle close to 90° with the patellar tendon (LAFAVER et al., 2007LAFAVER, S. et al. Tibial tuberosity advancement for stabilization of the canine cranial cruciate ligament-deficient stifle joint: surgical technique, early results, and complications in 101 dogs. Veterinary Surgery, v.36, n.6, p.573-586, 2007. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17686132/ >. Accessed: May, 20, 2022. doi: 10.1111/j.1532-950X.2007.00307.x.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17686132...
), and resulting in dynamic stability in the support phase even with CCLR, a relatively easy surgical repair compared to the canine tibial plateau, which has a mean natural angulation close to 22.6° (SLOCUM & DEVINE, 1983SLOCUM, B., DEVINE, T. Cranial tibial thrust: a primary force in the canine stifle. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, v.183, n.4, p.456-459, 1983. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6618973/ >. Accessed: May, 20, 2022.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6618973/...
).

Respectively, extra-articular osteotomies and sutures have the advantage of being used in arthroscopy or mini-arthrotomy for joint inspection (TATARUNAS et al., 2008TATARUNAS, A. C. et al. Tibial plato leveling osteotomy. Semina: Ciências Agrárias. v.29. n.3. p.685-692, 2008. Available from: <Available from: https://www.redalyc.org/pdf/4457/445744089024.pdf >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021.
https://www.redalyc.org/pdf/4457/4457440...
) compared to the proposed technique that requires arthrotomy and medial dislocation of the patella, mainly because of the need to perforate the proximal tibia in the center-medial direction.

Although, innovative materials with improved biocompatibility and excellent strength are available in the market (GOMIDE et al., 2019GOMIDE, L. C. et al. Mechanical study of the properties of sutures used in orthopedics surgeries. Revista Brasileira de Ortopedia, v.54. n.3. p.247-252, 2019. Available from: <Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6597418/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1016/j.rbo.2018.02.001.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/article...
), several studies have reported on the use of intra-articular synthetic polyester implants to replace ruptured ligaments (ROOSTER et al., 2001ROOSTER, H. et al. Biomechanical properties of braided polyester tapes intended for use as intra-articular cranial cruciate ligament prostheses in dogs. American Journal of Veterinary Research, v.62, n.1, p.48-53, 2001. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11197560/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.2460/ajvr.2001.62.48.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11197560...
; SELMI et al., 2002SELMI, A. L. et al. Clinical and radiographic evaluation of a polyester prosthesis in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture. Ciência Rural, v.32, n.5. p.793-798, 2002. Available from: <Available from: https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/sLhyQx4yrSdHm3VNqBKj5yM/abstract/?lang=en# >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1590/S0103-84782002000500009.
https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/sLhyQx4yrSd...
; PRZĄDKA et al., 2017PRZĄDKA, P. et al. Reconstruction of cranial cruciate ligament in rabbits using polyester implants saturated with PRP, antlerogenic stem cells MIC-1 and their homogenate. Connective Tissue Research, v.58. n.5. p.464-478, 2017. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27791406/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1080/03008207.2016.1251911.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27791406...
; PRADA et al.,2018PRADA, T. C. et al. Short-term evaluation of an intra-articular technique for cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs using nylon or polyester. Semina: Ciências Agrárias, v.39. n.2. p.593-604, 2018. Available from: <Available from: https://www.uel.br/revistas/uel/index.php/semagrarias/article/view/28565/0 >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.5433/1679-0359.2018v39n2p593.
https://www.uel.br/revistas/uel/index.ph...
), with a higher incidence of complications related to inefficient surgical technique than to material biocompatibility, according to PRADA et al. (2018). The main advantages of braided multifilament surgical polyester thread include non-absorption and load capacity maintenance over time (MÜLLER et al.,2016MÜLLER, D. A. et al. Two-month longitudinal study of mechanical properties of absorbable sutures used in orthopedic surgery. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, v.11, n.1, p.111, 2016. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27729082/ >. Accessed: May, 20, 2022. doi: 10.1186/s13018-016-0451-5.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27729082...
); in contrast, due to its characteristics, it triggers moderate tissue reaction with a 3-week peak followed by reduction (ESENYEL et al., 2009ESENYEL, C. Z. et al. Evaluation of soft tissue reactions to three nonabsorbable suture materials in a rabbit model. Acta Orthopaedica et Traumatologica Túrcica. v.43, n.4, p.366-372, 2009. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19809235/ >. Accessed: May, 20, 2022. doi: 10.3944/AOTT.2009.366.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19809235...
). A folded cerclage was passed through the bone tunnel to anchor the polyester thread next to the femoral diaphysis. The use of bone cerclage is associated with several complications such as fracture collapse, stability loss, and thread loosening; thus, its use is not recommended (HAYASHI et al., 2019HAYASHI, K. et al. Principles of fracture diagnoses and management. In: FOSSUM, T. W., Small Animal Surgery. 5. ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier, 2019, Cap.32, p.976-1036.). However, according to KOWALESKI et al.(2017KOWALESKI, M. P. et al. Stifle joint. In: TOBIAS, K. M.; JOHNSTON, S. A., Veterinary Surgery: Small Animal. 2ª ed. Elsevier, St. Louis, 2017, Cap.61, p.1071-1167.), loop-shaped cerclage is a good anchoring option for grafts in orthopedic surgery. The present study analyzed the use of a polyester thread with two different thicknesses in cadaver dogs according to body weight. This difference followed the indication of load resistance for thread rupture, as predicted by GOMIDE et al. (2019)GOMIDE, L. C. et al. Mechanical study of the properties of sutures used in orthopedics surgeries. Revista Brasileira de Ortopedia, v.54. n.3. p.247-252, 2019. Available from: <Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6597418/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1016/j.rbo.2018.02.001.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/article...
.

The drawer movement should be tested on the orthopedic examination of dogs with suspected CCLR either using the direct drawer test or the indirect tibial compression test. Both tests are based on detecting tibial displacement relative to the femur (DECAMP et al., 2016DECAMP, C. E. et al. Brinker, Piermattei and Flo’s Handbook of Small Animal Orthopedics and Fracture Repair. 5ª ed. St. Louis, Missouri: Saunders Elsevier, 2016. 868p.). Test sensitivity increases considerably when performed under anesthesia, reducing the risk of false-negative results (CAROBBI & NESS, 2009CAROBBI, B.; NESS, M. G. Preliminary study evaluating tests used to diagnose canine cranial cruciate ligament failure. The Journal of Small Animal Practice, v.50, n.5, p.224-226, 2009. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19425171/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1111/j.1748-5827.2008.00723.x.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19425171...
). The drawer test was used to analyze andmeasure tibial displacement by performing a passive movement. Although, the tibial compression test simulates the active weight-bearing movement by the limb, being influenced by the bone-muscle set (DECAMP et al., 2016), by annulling the drawer movement, the movement triggered by tibial compression is also annulled. However, the inverse is not evidenced.

In this study, the use of cadaver limbs previously thawed and prepared for the evaluations standardized the drawer test after iatrogenic ligament rupture. The standardization occurred both by the execution team and by the conditions of the anatomical specimens. All limbs were tested at a 135° angle, based on DENNLER et al. (2006DENNLER, R. et al. Inclination of the patellar ligament in relation to flexion angle in stifle joints of dogs without degenerative joint disease. American Journal of Veterinary Research, v.67, n.11, p.1849-1854, 2006. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17078745/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.2460/ajvr.67.11.1849.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17078745...
) and KIM et al. (2008KIM, S. E. et al. Tibial osteotomies for cranial cruciate ligament insufficiency in dogs. Veterinary Surgery, v.37, n.2, p.111-125, 2008. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18251804/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1111/j.1532-950X.2007.00361.x.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18251804...
), who reported that this angle is the standard for the canine stifle joint in the support phase of gait. The tibial displacement relative to the femur was 32.2% greater in cadavers with more than 15 kg of body weight than in lighter cadavers after CCL dissection (P < 0.05; Table 1). The literature does not cite this relationship, and it may be associated with the anatomically larger ligament-meniscus-articular capsule set.

The evaluated side, left or right, had no effect on the drawer movement, with a mean of 1.30 ± 0.07 mm (P > 0.05; Table 1). The interaction between limb location (right or left) and procedure moment was not significant (P = 0.39), showing that limb location has no influence on the drawer movement response at different procedure timepoints.

A significant interaction was foundbetween the group and the amplitude of the drawer movement (P < 0.01). After CCLR, the group of heavier animals presented a drawer movement (3.18 ± 0.15 mm) greater than the group of lighter animals (2.03 ± 0.14 mm). As an anatomical reference, the wire inserted next to the LCL in the tibia showed a mean displacement of 98.55% greater than the wire inserted next to the LCL in the femur in the group of heavier animals than in the group of lighter animals. These results corroborated with the literature (SCHULZ et al., 2019SCHULZ, K. S. et al. Diseases of the joints. In: FOSSUM, T. W., Small Animal Surgery. 5. ed. Elsevier, Philadelphia, 2019, Cap.34, p.1134-1280.); however, obtaining reliable data on the cranial displacement of the tibia relative to the femur after CCLR is difficult, probably related to the force applied by the evaluator during examination.

Regarding joint stabilization evaluation after the proposed correction, no differences were reported in the tibial displacement before dissection and after surgical restoration (P > 0.05; Table 1). This demonstrated that the limb returns to a cranial tibial displacement after the surgical procedure which is similar physiologically. According to SHIMADA et al. (2020SHIMADA, M. et al. Biomechanical effects of tibial plateau levelling osteotomy on joint instability in normal canine stifles: an in vitro study. Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology: V.C.O.T., v.33, n.5, p.301-307, 2020. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32283560/ >. Accessed: Nov. 15, 2022. doi: 10.1055/s-0040-1709505.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32283560...
), no current surgical technique ensures complete joint stability after CCLR which will inhibit DJD progression mainly due to postoperative residual instability. In general, as long as instability is present, DJD will progress, resulting in meniscal injury, synovitis, articular cartilage degeneration, periarticular osteophyte development, and capsular fibrosis (PELISSON et al., 2010PELISSON, C. F. et al. In vitro comparative study of canine knees drawer movement submitted to two extra-capsular techniques to fix the instability after abruption of the cranial cruciate ligament. Ciência Rural, v.40, n.6, p.1335-1340, 2010. Available from: <Available from: https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/GQyzfGScYfNnqcPsHDJHdRH/abstract/?lang=pt# >. Accessed: May, 15, 2022. doi: 10.1590/S0103-84782010005000097.
https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/GQyzfGScYfN...
).

In this proposal, the drilling of large-caliber bone tunnels in the femur and tibia is suppressed by passing the wire through the femoral condyles, mimicking the CCL anatomy and obtaining a location close to the isometric point for implant fixation.

Intra-articular techniques using prosthetic ligament are described as a form of primary replacement of the ruptured ligament and/or as a method to expand an implanted biological graft (MASCARENHAS & MACDONALD, 2008MASCARENHAS, R.; MACDONALD, P. B. Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a look at prosthetics-past, present and possible future. Mcgill Journal of Medicine, v.11, n.1, p.29-37, 2008. Available from: <Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2322926/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/article...
). According to MURRAY et al. (2007MURRAY, M. M. et al. Enhanced histologic repair in a central wound in the anterior cruciate ligament with a collagen-platelet-rich plasma scaffold. Journal of Orthopaedic Research: Official Publication of the Orthopaedic Research Society, v.25. n.8. p.1007-1017, 2007. Available from: <Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17415785/ >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1002/jor.20367.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17415785...
), several techniques are expected to be replaced by intra-articular implants containing stem cells. These implants would act as biological scaffolds for ligament reconstruction, mechanically protecting the tissue while the CCL reaches structural integrity. This proposed technique can be the first step toward future biological substitution, as it efficiently and anatomically mimics the CCL and excludes intra-articular bone perforation to induce bone formation after the use of stem cells.

One of the main limitations of this study is the evaluationmethod, with the direct drawer movement test being an operator-dependent subjective analysis of displacement. However, it is a widely used technique to diagnose CCLR and for measurements that was used in other studies (KEMPER et al., 2013KEMPER, B. et al. Drawer movement in canine knees undergoing extracapsular stabilization after cranial cruciate ligament rupture in vitro. Ciência Rural, v.43, n.6, p.1096-1101, 2013. Available from: <Available from: https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/45QFW7YyJTY78tM4pJy96hF/?format=html# >. Accessed: Sep. 20, 2021. doi: 10.1590/S0103-84782013005000063.
https://www.scielo.br/j/cr/a/45QFW7YyJTY...
). Different materials may have affected displacement test measurements. However, the threads used in this study were made of polyester and without elasticity, but with different diameters according to the indication for use considering the animal weight. Thus, expected differences between the groups would include thread rupture during the evaluation, which was not observed in any of the tests. No differences were found between tibial displacement before dissection and after surgical restoration (P > 0.05; Table 1). The joints were not anatomically measured, which would make it possible to identify individual differences between the groups.

Results presented here show that future biomechanical tests and subsequent in vivo studies would help delineate limitations and restrictions of the proposed technique, as well as to evaluate the clinical progression of the patients by associating medium- and long-term imaging tests, claudication score, and evaluation of the joint range of motion.

CONCLUSION:

The proposed technique is effective in stabilizing the stifle joint after CCL dissection in dog specimens, neutralizing the tibial drawer movement at physiological levels.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors are grateful for the financial support for carrying out the research.This study was financially supported by the Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) and was financed in part by the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES), Brasil - Finance code 001.

REFERENCES

  • CR-2022-0125.R2

Edited by

Editors: Rudi Weiblen (0000-0002-1737-9817) Eduardo Raposo Monteiro (0000-0001-8672-7830)

Publication Dates

  • Publication in this collection
    02 June 2023
  • Date of issue
    2024

History

  • Received
    07 Mar 2022
  • Accepted
    08 Mar 2023
  • Reviewed
    25 Apr 2023
Universidade Federal de Santa Maria Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Centro de Ciências Rurais , 97105-900 Santa Maria RS Brazil , Tel.: +55 55 3220-8698 , Fax: +55 55 3220-8695 - Santa Maria - RS - Brazil
E-mail: cienciarural@mail.ufsm.br