Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To evaluate the relationship between tibial plateau angle (TPA) and strain in the intact cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) during axial loading.
STUDY DESIGN:
Ex vivo mechanical testing study.
SAMPLE POPULATION:
Cadaveric canine stifles (n = 6).
METHODS:
A bicentric and uni-radial Slocum saw blade was used to perform the osteotomy on each stifle and a custom designed plate was secured to the leg. Each stifle was loaded and CCL strain and axial displacement were recorded. TPA was adjusted to -20°, -10°, 0°, +10°, +20° of normal. Change in the strain was assessed during the axial loading period.
RESULTS:
For all specimens, linear displacement of the femur and CCL strain increased with increasing axial load. Mean change in strain was 4.41, 5.26, 6.02, 6.3, and 7.39 at -20°, -10°, 0°, 10°, and 20°, respectively. The R-squared for the linear regression equation was 0.91, suggesting a strong relationship between change in TPA and CCL strain.
CONCLUSIONS:
The mechanical testing model used found CCL strain increased with increasing axial load regardless of the TPA. Decreasing TPA decreased strain in the intact CCL.
© Copyright 2014 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.
