Use of the biosynthetic cellulose membrane in experimental trochleoplasty in dogs. clinical, radiographic and macroscopic evaluation

The aim of this study was to evaluate the application of national biosynthetic cellulose membrane after experimental trochleoplasty, to verify its behaviour in an intrarticular environment. Twelve adult healthy dogs (Canis familiaris) were used. We used 2 groups: control group (CG), trochleoplasty in the right femur and treated group (TG), trochleoplasty in the left femur with application of the biosynthetic cellulose membrane. The dogs were subdivided in four subgroups according to the moment (M) of valuation: 15 (Ml 5), 30 (M30), 60 (M60) and 90 (M90) postoperatively. The locomotor function of the limb was evaluated in scores: no claudication (0), discreet claudication and weight support (1), moderated claudication and weight support (2), several claudication (3) and claudication without weight support (4). The joint macroscopic evaluation was performed before exploratory arthrotomy. All dogs showed normal function of the limbs in all differents moments. CG and TG showed the same behavior as for the articular space preservation and new trochlear groove in the radiographic results. Macroscopically, repair tissue was formed in all dogs of the TG since 15 days and after 30 days in CG. The continuity of the new tissue with adjacent cartilage was observed in all dogs of the TG and in six of the CG. The biosynthetic cellulose membrane didn't cause deleterious effects showing good adaptation in intrarticular environment. No clinical and radiographic difference was detected between the groups. The biomaterial accelerated the initial repair process on the trochleoplasty area on the macroscopic evaluation showing good integration between new tissue and the adjacent cartilage.