Research findings on an artificial ligament using collagen microfibers as the scaffold were presented at the 7th World Veterinary Orthopedic Congress

This study evaluated anatomical reconstruction using collagen microfibers (CMF) in a canine CrCL rupture model. The CMF was produced using a stretch-spinning process. From a One Health perspective, the study aims to advance the functional validation of preclinical technologies by promoting collaboration in the development of medical technologies for humans and animals.

In the experiment, CMF approximately 25 µm in diameter was wound onto a paper tube, and an artificial ligament was produced through chemical treatment and twisting. The specimens used in the study were evaluated without conducting new animal experiments, by reusing 6 existing tissue specimens from canine knee joints. The specimens were divided into a total of 4 groups: a control group (untreated normal knees), a complete rupture group, a single-bundle reconstruction group and a double-bundle reconstruction group.

Mechanical evaluation was conducted using 3 measures: ligament tension, anterior tibial displacement and displacement during internal rotation. The stability and tension characteristics of each group were compared at knee joint angles of 140° and 80°, respectively. In particular, the single-bundle reconstruction group maintained tension equivalent to that of normal knees and showed suppression of anterior tibial displacement and displacement during internal rotation. The double-bundle reconstruction group showed increased tension, while its effects in suppressing anterior displacement and displacement during internal rotation were at the same level as those of the control group.

In conclusion, the findings suggest that anatomical reconstruction using a CMF artificial ligament may be a promising treatment approach for canine CrCL rupture. Ensuring initial stability and achieving long-term ligamentization were identified as challenges for future study.