Computed tomographic arthrography of the normal canine stifle

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Radiology
• Canine Anatomy
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• The canine stifle joint is complex, with several ligaments and menisci crucial for stability.
• Accurate visualization of these structures is essential for diagnosing injuries.
• Computed tomography (CT) is a valuable imaging modality, but its efficacy in fully characterizing stifle structures can be limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diagnostic utility of computed tomographic arthrography (CTA) in visualizing normal canine stifle joint structures.
• To compare the visualization of ligamentous structures and menisci using standard CT versus CTA.
• To determine the effectiveness of multiplanar reconstructions in assessing stifle anatomy.

Main Methods:

• Eight normal cadaveric canine stifles underwent computed tomography (CT) before and after intra-articular iodinated contrast administration.
• Transverse CT images were acquired and reconstructed in dorsal, parasagittal, and oblique planes.
• Computed tomographic arthrography (CTA) images were analyzed for the identification of specific stifle joint structures.

Main Results:

• Standard CT identified the cranial cruciate ligament, caudal cruciate ligament, medial meniscus, lateral meniscus, and collateral ligaments.
• CTA significantly improved the visualization and identification of additional structures, including the meniscofemoral ligament, cranial and caudal meniscotibial ligaments, and the intermeniscal ligament.
• The patellar tendon was clearly visualized on both CT and CTA.
• Multiplanar reconstructions aided in evaluating the continuity of cruciate ligaments and menisci.
• Medial and lateral collateral ligaments were not consistently well-identified on multiplanar reconstructed images from either CT or CTA.

Conclusions:

• Computed tomographic arthrography (CTA) offers superior visualization of intra-articular structures within the canine stifle joint compared to standard CT.
• CTA enhances the identification of key ligaments and menisci, providing more comprehensive anatomical detail.
• While CTA improves visualization, further refinement may be needed for consistent assessment of collateral ligaments.