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Mechanical testing of a modified stabilisation method for tibial tuberosity advancement
S Etchepareborde1, N Barthelemy, J Mills
1Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Belgium. sebetche@yahoo.com
Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology : V.C.O.T
|September 11, 2010
Summary
Modified tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) techniques were evaluated. Advancing the tibial crest without completely separating it resulted in a stronger construct compared to complete separation, which is not recommended for clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Surgical Techniques
Background:
- Tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) is a surgical technique used to correct stifle joint instability.
- Modified TTA techniques without plate fixation have been developed to potentially simplify the procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the biomechanical strength of three modified tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) techniques.
- To compare the loads to failure for each modified TTA technique in an in vitro canine model.
Main Methods:
- A 9 mm TTA procedure was performed on canine tibiae (32-38 kg).
- Three groups were established: Group 1 (crest partially attached, wire stabilization), Group 2 (crest partially attached, no additional device), and Group 3 (crest completely separated, wire stabilization).
- Axial force was applied via the patella to determine the maximal load to failure.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in strength was found between Group 1 and Group 2.
- Both Group 1 and Group 2 demonstrated significantly stronger constructs than Group 3.
- Complete separation of the tibial crest (Group 3) resulted in a significantly weaker construct.
Conclusions:
- Modified TTA techniques without plate fixation can be biomechanically sound.
- Complete separation of the tibial crest during TTA significantly weakens the construct.
- The authors do not recommend clinical use of TTA techniques involving complete tibial crest separation due to biomechanical weakness.
