Does a fabella-tibial suture alter the outcome for dogs with cranial cruciate ligament insufficiency undergoing arthrotomy and caudal pole medial meniscectomy?

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of fabella-tibial suture (FTS) on long-term outcome in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) insufficiency and concurrent medial meniscal tear (MMT) that were managed by an open, caudal pole medial meniscectomy (CPMM). METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of the clinical records of dogs treated for CCL insufficiency with concurrent MMT by open CPMM, with or without the non-random addition of a nylon FTS according to surgeon preference, during the period of 2001 to 2004. The Bristol Osteoarthritis in Dogs questionnaire was modified for owner assessment of outcome using a visual analogue scale based on several criteria: level of activity, disability, severity of lameness and frequency of lameness before and after surgery. RESULTS: Completed questionnaires from 31 dog owners were received. A FTS was used after CPMM in 22 dogs (FTS group), but in nine dogs (control group) only a CPMM was performed. The median time to follow up was longer in the FTS group (25 months) than the control group (16 months) (P=0.03). There were not any significant differences between the two groups before and after surgery for the following: disability, activity, frequency of lameness, severity of lameness, ability to climb stairs and ability to sit down. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The placement of a FTS following stifle joint arthrotomy and CPMM in dogs with CCL deficiency and concurrent MMT may not be a significant factor affecting the ultimate surgical outcome, although our study is limited by the non-randomised study design.