Healing of the articular disc of the wrist in dogs

The healing potential of the articular disc of the wrist (antebrachiocarpal) joint was investigated in 30 adult dogs (35 joints). In 28 joints a complete section of the entire disc was carried out and sutured in 10; a partial lesion was made in 7. The dogs were killed at varying intervals from 2 weeks to 8 months and healing studied by naked eye inspection and histological examination. At 3, 6 and 8 months the tears in all specimens were completely healed by mature fibrous tissue containing fibrocartilaginous elements, whether or not they had been sutured. In peripheral areas the defect was filled by an ingrowth of young fibroblastic tissue arising from the synovium, whereas in the central areas the repair appeared to originate from neighbouring bone. We have demonstrated the ability of the mostly avascular disc to repair itself. Suturing did not enhance the healing process.