A New Intra-Articular Reconstruction Technique for Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Cats: A Retrospective Study of 12 Cases

To describe, in cats with cranial cruciate ligament rupture, an intra-articular reconstruction technique using an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene synthetic ligament, assessing complications and long-term outcomes. The study is a retrospective design. Twelve cats with cranial cruciate ligament rupture were subjected to an intra-articular reconstruction procedure and simultaneous exploratory standard lateral arthrotomy. Medical histories, haematology and imaging diagnostics (radiography) were collected. Follow-up orthopaedic exams and radiographs were performed at postoperative months 1, 2, 6 and 12. The overall complication rate was 23% (incomplete joint stabilization 1, intraoperative rupture of the synthetic ligament 1, failure to lock the screw 1), but no postoperative major complications occurred. Concomitant medial meniscal injury was evident in 77% of joints. During 12 months of follow-up, all cats fully recovered without clinically relevant osteoarthritic deterioration. Preliminary results in these 12 cases support the use of the intra-articular reconstruction technique for cranial cruciate ligament rupture in cats, given the good long-term limb function and the only minimal progression of osteoarthritis we observed.