H. De Rooster et H. Van Bree, Use of compression stress radiography for the detection of partial tears of the canine cranial cruciate ligament, J SM ANIM P, 40(12), 1999, pp. 573-576
Twenty-three cases of partial rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL
) were reviewed. All of these patients were evaluated for clinical and radi
ographic signs of instability. Nine cases showed a negative drawer sign on
manual assessment. A positive radiographic tibial compression test was obta
ined for all stifle joints with a partially ruptured cruciate. In 13 cases,
the site of injury and the appearance of the torn ends were evaluated. The
final diagnosis of partial CCL rupture was made by direct visualisation an
d probing of the CCL during arthrotomy (22 cases) or arthroscopy (one case)
.