Radiographic morphometric characteristics of stie joint in orthopaedically healthy dogs

Abstract

This study presents a morphometric analysis of the stifle joint in orthopaedically healthy dogs, with an emphasis on variations associated with body weight and breed size. A total of 37 dogs were included and categorised into distinct weight groups and breed size classifications. Key morphometric parameters including patellar length, patellar ligament length, cortical thickness, and muscle thickness, were measured and systematically analysed. The results revealed significant variations in morphometric measurements across different weight categories and breed sizes. Dogs of similar breed and body weight exhibited comparable morphometric values, whereas overall measurements increased with breed size, irrespective of body weight. These findings highlight the influence of breed size as a primary determinant of stifle joint morphology. The study underscores the importance of establishing standardised morphometric reference values in dogs. Such standardisation can aid in the accurate assessment of orthopaedic conditions, improve the evaluation of surgical outcomes, and facilitate the identification of abnormalities related to bone morphology.