J Korean Orthop Assoc.  2001 Feb;36(1):25-32.

Healing potential of the transected posterior cruciate ligament of the rabbit

• Jung YB
• Lee TJ
• Yang DL
• Kim KS
• Ko KW
• Chung JW

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study was undertaken to elucidate the natural healing potential in posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury using histological and biomechanical methods.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
PCLs of 92 rabbits were cut partially or completely cut on one side. In Group I, 75% of the PCL was cut preserving the synovium partially. In Group II, the PCL and synovium were completely severed. Investigations were performed by gross inspection, histological examination after Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining and tensile stress testing using an Instron.
RESULTS
Continuity of the ligaments began to appear at 2 weeks in group I and at 12weeks in group II. Proliferation of fibroblasts and vessels were observed in HE stained ligaments at 6 and 12 weeks in both groups. The ultimate tensile strength in group I was .3% and in group II 33.1% at 12 weeks.
CONCLUSION
Although the mechanical properties of the regenerated ligaments were poor, this study demonstrats that the rabbit PCL has healing potential irrespective of the degree of injury.

Keyword

Posterior Cruciate Ligament; Healing Potential; Biomechanical Properties

MeSH Terms

Exercise Test
Fibroblasts
Ligaments
Posterior Cruciate Ligament*
Rabbits
Synovial Membrane
Tensile Strength