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Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2014; 27(02): 141-146
DOI: 10.3415/VCOT-13-08-0107
Original Research
Schattauer GmbH

Magnetic resonance imaging for detection of late meniscal tears in dogs following tibial tuberosity advancement for treatment of cranial cruciate ligament injury

F. Taylor-Brown
1   The Royal Veterinary College, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
,
C. R. Lamb
1   The Royal Veterinary College, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
,
M. S. Tivers
1   The Royal Veterinary College, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
,
A. Li
2   Chiltern Referral Services, Chalfont, St. Giles, United Kingdom
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 27 August 2013

Accepted: 08 January 2014

Publication Date:
20 December 2017 (online)

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Summary

Objectives

To document the use of and to estimate the accuracy of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging for detection of late meniscal tears in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament injury treated with tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA).

Methods

Medical records of dogs that had TTA followed by stifle MR imaging for suspected meniscal tear and subsequent arthrotomy were reviewed retrospectively. Magnetic resonance images were reviewed independently by an observer blinded to clinical information who classified menisci as torn, abnormal but intact, or normal. Magnetic resonance and surgical findings were compared.

Results

Eight stifles from large breed dogs were included. Six stifles had a medial meniscal tear identified in MR images and later confirmed surgically. In the remaining two stifles, the menisci appeared intact in MR images and no tear was identified at subsequent arthrotomy. Lateral menisci in all stifles appeared intact in MR images and were considered normal at surgery. Susceptibility artefacts associated with TTA implants were present in all images but did not adversely affect interpretation of intra-articular structures.

Clinical significance

Magnetic resonance imaging appears to be accurate for diagnosis of late meniscal tears. Artefacts associated with TTA implants did not prevent evaluation of critical intra-articular structures. Further investigation with MR imaging should be considered when late meniscal tear is suspected following TTA.

Keywords

Cranial cruciate ligament - dog - magnetic resonance imaging - meniscus - stifle

 

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