Healing potential of the transected posterior cruciate ligament of the rabbit / 대한정형외과학회잡지

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was undertaken to elucidate the natural healing potential in posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury using histological and biomechanical methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PCLs of 92 rabbits were cut partially or completely cut on one side. In Group I, 75% of the PCL was cut preserving the synovium partially. In Group II, the PCL and synovium were completely severed. Investigations were performed by gross inspection, histological examination after Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining and tensile stress testing using an Instron. RESULTS: Continuity of the ligaments began to appear at 2 weeks in group I and at 12weeks in group II. Proliferation of fibroblasts and vessels were observed in HE stained ligaments at 6 and 12 weeks in both groups. The ultimate tensile strength in group I was .3% and in group II 33.1% at 12 weeks. CONCLUSION: Although the mechanical properties of the regenerated ligaments were poor, this study demonstrats that the rabbit PCL has healing potential irrespective of the degree of injury.