Ex Vivo Evaluation of Intra-Articular Cranial Cruciate Ligament Repair Using an Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Graft in the Cats.

UHMWPE graft reconstruction restores feline stifle stability post-CCL transection.

This ex vivo biomechanical study evaluated the efficacy of intra-articular cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) reconstruction in feline stifle joints using ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) grafts. Ten feline hindlimbs were tested under standardized conditions using an axial limb press at 30% body weight load with fixed joint angles (femur 60°, stifle and hock 120°). Specimens underwent three sequential testing phases: intact joint baseline, post-CCL transection, and post-reconstruction using 16-strand UHMWPE grafts with interference screw fixation. Tibial translation significantly increased following CCL transection but normalized to baseline values following reconstruction. Muscle force ratios and joint angles remained consistent across all testing conditions. Quadriceps force was approximately twice that of gastrocnemius force. The study demonstrated good measurement repeatability with minimal standard deviations. Findings indicate that intra-articular UHMWPE graft reconstruction successfully restores joint stability under static loading conditions and may be a viable surgical option for feline CCL injuries.

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