Computed tomographic imaging and surgical management of distal insertional avulsion fragments of the caudal cruciate ligament in four horses

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveTo describe cases with caudal cruciate ligament (CdCL) avulsion fragments diagnosed based on computed tomography (CT) examination and report on arthroscopic fragment removal.AnimalsFour Warmblood horses with hindlimb lameness and osseous fragments located in the caudal medial femorotibial joint (mFTJ).Study designShort case series.MethodsCT and arthroscopic evaluation of the caudal mFTJ were performed. The caudal mFTJ and the insertion of the CdCL on the tibia were assessed and removal of the avulsion fragments was attempted in three horses using a cranial intercondylar approach.ResultsThe fragment was not accessible via caudomedial approaches in one horse. A cranial intercondylar approach was used in three horses, allowing removal of the intra‐articular fragment in two horses, and removal of two‐thirds of the proximal fragment in the last horse. Acute, profuse, arterial bleeding occurred in this horse during surgery with transient postoperative soft tissue swelling. Comorbidities included medial femoral condyle cartilage defects (3), cranial cruciate ligament lesions (2), and medial collateral ligament lesions (2). Horses were followed up for 16 months (median, range 11–28 months), at which point all were back in ridden exercise; owners' satisfaction was good.ConclusionCT examination confirmed the diagnosis and allowed evaluation of the stifle joint for comorbidities. A cranial intercondylar arthroscopic approach facilitated the removal of CdCL insertional avulsion fragments, although not always complete.Clinical significanceA cranial intercondylar approach can allow access to CdCL avulsion fragments, but complications and incomplete removal remain possible.