Evaluation of a joint distractor to facilitate arthroscopy of the hip joint in dogs
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 21, 2026
Author Spotlight: A Novel 3D-Printed Titanium Implant for Minimally Invasive Treatment of Hip Dysplasia in Young Dogs
Published on: April 19, 2024
V Devesa1, G L Rovesti, P G Urrutia
1Department of Internal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Veterinary School, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain.
Objective:
To evaluate the technical feasibility and efficacy of a hip joint distraction technique, any potential ligamentous damage linked to the procedure, and the effect of joint venting on the maximum distraction achieved.
Methods:
Twenty hip joints from 11 canine cadavers were evaluated radiographically by standard and stressed projections. Joint distraction was applied with loads from 40 up to 200 N, in 40 N increments, and fluoroscopic images were obtained at each load. At 200 N, a needle was inserted into the joint to achieve a venting effect, and the space was measured again. Standard and stressed radiographs were performed to evaluate potential laxity changes.
Results:
Distraction caused a significant increase in joint space at each load of distraction, although there were some variations. Joint venting produced a significant increase in joint space. A statistically significant difference in joint laxity evaluated radiographically before and after the procedure was recorded.
Clinical Significance:
Use of the distraction apparatus resulted in an increase in joint space. This could be useful for clinical situations where a larger joint space is required such as for arthroscopic procedures. However, loads in excess of 200 N may induce significant increases in joint laxity.
