Quantitative evaluation of hip joint laxity in 22 Border Collies using computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Radiology
• Canine Orthopedics
• Comparative Anatomy

Background:

• Hip joint abnormalities are common in Border Collies, impacting their mobility and quality of life.
• Accurate assessment of hip joint morphology is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Computed tomography (CT) offers detailed anatomical visualization, but its utility in a weight-bearing position for canine hips requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To acquire computed tomography (CT) data of canine hip joints in a weight-bearing position.
• To measure key hip joint parameters including dorsolateral subluxation (DLS) score, lateral center edge angle (LCEA), dorsal acetabular rim angle (DARA), center distance (CD) index, and radiographic Norberg angle (NA).
• To evaluate the potential of CT in a weight-bearing position for comprehensive hip assessment in Border Collies.

Main Methods:

• 22 Border Collies underwent CT scans of their hip joints while in a weight-bearing stance.
• Measurements of DLS score, LCEA, DARA, CD index, and NA were performed on the CT images.
• Statistical analysis was conducted to determine mean values and correlations between parameters.

Main Results:

• Mean DLS score was 45.7 +/- 10.2%, LCEA was 85.9 +/- 10.3 degrees, DARA was 18.5 +/- 7.3 degrees, CD index was 0.40 +/- 0.17, and NA was 102.7 +/- 6.9 degrees.
• A strong correlation was observed between the DLS score and LCEA.
• CT evaluation in a weight-bearing position allowed for multidirectional assessment of the hip joints.

Conclusions:

• CT imaging in a weight-bearing position is a valuable tool for evaluating canine hip joints.
• The combined assessment of DLS score and LCEA may improve diagnostic accuracy for hip conditions.
• This method provides a comprehensive, multidirectional view of hip morphology, aiding in clinical decision-making for Border Collies.