In vitro performance testing of two arcuate oscillating saw blades designed for use during tibial plateau leveling osteotomy.

OBJECTIVE: To test the cutting performance of 2 commercially available oscillating saws designed for use during tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) and to evaluate the influence of saline irrigation on cutting performance. STUDY
DESIGN: In vitro experimental study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Composite polyurethane test blocks (n=40); 24 m TPLO saw blades.
METHODS: Controlled force cutting tests were performed using custom-made laminated bone substitute blocks to model the canine proximal tibia. Half of the trials were irrigated with 0.9% saline solution. Outcome measures were test block temperature (measured 1.5 m from the cutting zone), cutting rate, and cutting surface wear. Durability was measured by recording change in performance over multiple consecutive trials.
RESULTS: The Synthes blade cut the test blocks with ∼64% less heat generation and at a 63% faster cutting rate compared with the Slocum blade. Although wear of the Synthes blade was ∼50% greater after 19 uses, this did not negatively impact cutting performance. Saline irrigation produced no significant effect on peak cutting temperature but significantly reduced cutting rate for both saws.
CONCLUSIONS: Our results favor the Synthes blade in terms of cutting performance and the Slocum blade in terms of wear resistance. © Copyright 2011 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.