Experimental use of polyamide bands as an extra-articular repair of the cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs

Abstract

To evaluate the use of polyamide bands, manufactured for securing electrical cables for repair of the cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs, the present study was undertaken. Five mixed-breed dogs were used in the study. Lateral and anterioposterior radiography were carried out to confirm the soundness of both stifle joints in all dogs. One pelvic lime was randomly chosen for aseptic stifle surgery. Under general anesthesia and lateral recumbency with the limb rotated externally, the cranial cruciate ligament was found and transected via arthrotomy. Polyamide band was used as an imbrications suture for extra-articular repair of the cranial cruciate ligament. On days 2, 4, 6, 9, 17, 21, 25, 32, 46, 83, and 120 after surgery, lameness was scored. Radiographic examination was performed before and on days 45, 75, and 120 after surgery, and osteoarthritis changes in stifle joint were scored. There were no significant differences on lameness score during study and also between score at each time and score before surgery (grade 0; P > 0.05). There were no significant differences on radiographic examination score during study and also between score at each time and score before surgery (grade 0; P > 0.05). The present study showed that commercially available nylon bands may be successfully applied as cerclage to stabilize the stifle joint for treatment of the cranial cruciate ligament rupture.