Radiographic localization and isometry of the origin and insertion of the canine cranial cruciate ligament.

OBJECTIVE: To radiographically define the anatomic origin and insertion of the cranial cruciate ligament translated to the lateral radiographic projection of the stifle (CrCL-Lo and CrCL-Li, respectively), to correlate these landmarks for identification of the CrCL-Lo intraoperatively, and to compare the isometry of the CrCL-Lo to the lateral fabella. STUDY
DESIGN: Experimental study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Pelvic limbs (n = 12) from dogs weighing 13-26 kg.
METHODS: A radiographic quadrant method was used to localize the CrCL-Lo. Mediolateral radiographic projections of each stifle were taken through a range of motion. Maximum percent change in length between each tibial marker and femoral marker during range of motion determined isometry.
RESULTS: The CrCL-Lo is located at the caudal 33% and distal 50% of the lateral femoral condyle using Blumensaat's line or a line from the origin of the long digital extensor (LDE) to the lateral fabella, with no significant difference (P = .766) between the 2 reference lines. The CrCL-Li is located at the proximal 20% of the tibial plateau. No significant difference (P < .05) in isometry was found between the CrCL-Lo and lateral fabella.
CONCLUSION: The CrCL-Lo is located at the caudal 1/3 and distal ½ of the lateral femoral condyle. The CrCL-Lo and lateral fabella are not significantly different in isometry when used as a proximal anchor point in extracapsular stifle stabilization. © Copyright 2013 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.