REPLACEMENT OF THE COLLATERAL LIGAMENTS OF THE CANINE TARSOCRURAL JOINT - A PROPOSED TECHNIQUE

A technique for replacement of the medial and lateral collateral ligaments of the tarsocrural joint in dogs was developed based on studies of normal anatomy and function. The medial or lateral tarsocrural joint was made unstable by removal of the respective malleolus, ligaments and joint capsule; the component parts of the collateral ligaments were replaced using suture material to function as ligament prostheses. The technique was effective in maintaining near normal joint motion and adequate joint stability in cadavers immediately following surgery and in dogs observed for up to 39 mo. postoperatively. No degenerative joint disease was noted upon gross or radiographic examination.