CRUCIATE LIGAMENTS OF CANINE STIFLE - ANATOMICAL AND FUNCTIONAL-ANALYSIS

  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 38  (11) , 1807-1814
Abstract
Canine stifles (50) were used to study the anatomy and function of cruciate ligaments. Morphology of ligaments and the shape of their bony attachments were determined by dissection. Relative tension of the ligaments in flexion and extension was determined by identifying points of attachment of ligament fibers with small pins and making multiple radiographs as the stifle was taken through a range of motion. The distance between these points was then measured, and linear changes in ligaments were defined. Measurements of rotation, craniocaudal displacement, extension and flexion were made before and after cutting of 1 or both ligaments. Both cruciate ligaments apparently were composed of 2 component parts, and the geometry of their femoral attachments was responsible for a reciprocal loosening and tightening of these components through a range of motion. Transection of 1 or both cruciate ligaments resulted in marked joint instability.

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