Diagnosis and therapy of the rupture of both cruciate ligaments, the medial collateral ligament and abscission of both menisci in a ram. A case report

This report describes the case history of a 1.5-year-old ram admitted to the Clinic for Food Animals and Horses, University of Berne, Switzerland, because of an acute severe lameness of the left rear limb. Clinical and radiographic examination revealed disruption of the stifle joint with rupture of both cruciate ligaments, the medial collateral ligament, and disruption of both menisci from their attachments. The ruptured ligaments were replaced by synthetic ligament prostheses. Long-term examination at 12 months after implantation revealed slight instability of the stifle joint, caused by degeneration of the medial meniscus, and signs of arthrosis deformans. The new formed periarticular connective tissue contributed to the stability of the stifle joint, so that a good functional result was achieved. Necropsy findings at 14 months after implantation confirmed that the synthetic ligament prostheses were intact and the medial meniscus was detached from its insertion and incorporated into the joint capsule. At microscopic examination of the synthetic band prosthesis, ingrowth of collagen and fibrous tissue was evident.