An Experimental Study on New Zelland Rabbits - The Histopathologic Research of Tricompartmantal Degenerative Changes in the Partial and Complete Tears of ACL and PCL

Abstract

Aim: This research was carried on to study the changes in tricompartmantal cartilage, osteocartilage, menisci and other ligaments that is resulted by partial and complete AKL and PKL tears. Materials and
Methods: 20 mature, male New Zelland type rabbits were sepereted into five groups. Following procedures were performed in that order: Partial cut of AKL in the first group; Complete cut of AKL in 2nd one; Partial cut of PKL in the 3rd group;Complete cut of PKL in the 4th group; and finally as a control group, only the capsules were opened and then sutured back in the 5 th group. 90 days later, AKL, PKL, MKL, LKL, medial- lateral menisci, patellofemoral and tibiofemoral articular cartilage of the knees were examined histopatologically.
Results: Findings were recorded according to the histopathological criterias of Gritzka at all. Although some degenerative changes were observed in partial tears, both meniscii were not affected. It is also observed that complete AKL tears has given rise to more medial meniscal pathology than PKL tears. Complete AKL tears, also, had the most degenerative effect on patellofemoral joint. Additionally, complete AKL tears have caused the tear of MKL. Other findings are stated and discussed in the literature.
Conclusion: It is concluded that tricompartmantal degenerative findings in partial AKL and PKL tears does not results on the instability which needs surgical repair. In total tears, especially of AKL, the surgical purposes should be to correct the knee function and to protect the menisci.