Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Using a joint distractor to improve dog knee arthroscopy without fat
By Gemmill, Toby J & Farrell, Michael·Published in Veterinary surgery : VS·2009·Willows Referral Service, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Evaluation of a joint distractor to facilitate arthroscopy of the canine stifle.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of dogs underwent a new technique for knee surgery that helps veterinarians look inside the joint without needing to remove fat tissue. In 15 dogs, the procedure allowed vets to see all important parts of the knee joint, and they could complete the inspection in an average of 21 minutes. For five of these dogs, the vets were able to successfully remove damaged cartilage. This new method could make knee surgeries easier and safer for dogs by reducing the need for more invasive procedures.
People also search for: dog knee surgery · canine stifle arthroscopy · dog joint surgery recovery
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To assess a novel technique for arthroscopic evaluation of the canine stifle avoiding the need for fat pad debridement. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Cadaveric canine stifles (n=10); Client-owned dogs (15). METHODS: In cadaveric stifles, the femoropatellar space was assessed before placement of a joint distractor and examination of the femorotibial joint. Time to complete evaluation of the femoropatellar space, to observe the cruciate ligaments, and to completion of examination of the femorotibial joint were recorded. Distractor-assisted arthroscopy was then performed in 15 consecutive clinical cases. Clinical information, time to complete joint evaluation, and ability to perform any additional arthroscopic surgery were recorded. RESULTS: Observation and palpation of intra-articular structures were possible in all cadaveric stifles. Mean time to evaluate the femoropatellar space was 3.2 minutes (range, 2-4 minutes); to observe the cruciate ligaments, 5.8 minutes (range, 3-8 minutes); and to completion of joint inspection, 9.1 minutes (range 6-13 minutes). In the clinical cases, observation of intra-articular structures was also possible in all stifles. Mean time to complete joint inspection was 21 minutes (range, 10-40 minutes). Partial meniscectomy was performed successfully in 5 stifles. CONCLUSIONS: Use of a joint distractor allowed arthroscopic observation of all relevant structures. Partial meniscectomy was readily performed. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Use of a joint distractor may simplify arthroscopic assessment of the canine stifle and avoid potential morbidity associated with fat pad debridement.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19573059/