Stifle extension results in differential tensile forces developing between abaxial and axial components of the cranial meniscotibial ligament of the equine medial meniscus: A mechanistic explanation for meniscal tear patterns

摘要: Summary Reason for performing the study: To identify potential functional-anatomical characteristics of cranial horn attachment medial meniscus (MM) that may help explain pathogenesis common tear patterns have been reported. Hypothesis: Full extension stifle generates a significant increase in tensile forces within meniscotibial ligament (CrMTL) MM, which predispose this structure to injury. Methods: The effect femorotibial angle (160°, 150°, 140° and 130°) on axial abaxial components CrMTL was examined 6 mature cadaver stifles using an implantable force probe. Three additional specimens were used examine histological its connection MM. Results: (160°) resulted significantly greater component when compared with (P = 0.001). increased between 150° 160° 0.011). appears be comprised 2 functional components, become more visually distinct as is extended. Histologically, these are separated by cleft highly vascularised, less organised connective tissue, becomes prominent at junction MM. Conclusion: A 4-fold difference MM observed full stifle. Potential relevance: anatomy place region risk injury during hyperextension and, therefore, provide mechanistic rationale commonly reported meniscal horse.