Concurrent caudal cruciate and medial collateral ligament repair using a single Mini TightRope (Arthrex) fixation in...

A 2-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat presented with acute left pelvic limb lameness after suspected trauma. Orthopaedic and radiographic findings were consistent with rupture of the medial collateral and caudal cruciate ligaments. Surgical exploration identified complete rupture of the caudal cruciate and medial collateral ligaments, as well as a crushed medial meniscus, necessitating partial medial meniscectomy. Primary repair of the medial collateral ligament was performed and a Mini TightRope (Arthrex) prosthesis was positioned to concurrently aid stifle stability following the rupture of the two ligaments. At 8 weeks postoperatively, the cat demonstrated normal gait and pain-free stifle manipulation, with radiographs confirming implant stability and no complications. No lameness was reported by the owner 2 years postoperatively.

This is the first case report of the use of bone tunnels and a Mini TightRope implant to address complete medial collateral and caudal cruciate ligament rupture and stabilise the stifle in a cat. This novel technique allowed for stabilisation without the need for external coaptation, enabling an early return to function.