Objectives: The current study high- lighted the basic anatomy of the ligamentous apparatus and the synovial membrane of the femorotibial articulation in healthy adult dogs. The study also aimed to give morphometric data about the length and width of the canine collateral femorotibial ligaments and to demonstrate whether or not there were sex differences in these dimensions.
Animals: Eight male and four female dogs were used in the study. Procedures: Radiography and careful dissection were performed to document the gross morphology of the fibrous components of the femorotibial articulation.
With the use of SEM, the collateral femorotibial ligaments and the synovial membrane of the studied joint were also carried out.
Results: The study revealed the gross features of the fibrous elements of the femorotibial articulation in adult dogs. SEM also emphasized the morphologic characteristics of the collateral femorotibial ligaments and the synovial membrane of this joint.Conclusions: Alterations in any struc- tural element of the femorotibial articulation would contribute significantly to dysfunction of the entire stifle joint which is manifested by pain and troubles in the pelvic limb movement. Therefore, understanding of the normal anatomy of this joint is essential for breeders, veterinarians and dog owners in order to properly diagnose and treat any joint injury. This will improve life quality of dogs and help them moving better. The data of the study might be used to obtain sufficient information about the specific features of the fibrous elements of the femorotibial articulation in normal adult dogs. Findings of this work might also evaluate the morpho-functional characteristics of this highly movable joint.