Feasibility of feline coxofemoral arthroscopy using a supratrochanteric lateral portal: A cadaveric study

Abstract

ObjectiveTo evaluate the feasibility of feline diagnostic coxofemoral arthroscopy.Study designEx vivo feline cadaveric descriptive study.AnimalsSeven feline cadavers (14 hips).MethodsGross dissection of two feline hips was performed to evaluate anatomic landmarks, guide arthroscopic portal development, and determine optimal limb positioning. A 1.9 mm, 0° arthroscope, inserted through a supratrochanteric lateral portal, was used to assess intraarticular structures in 12 feline cadaver hips. Arthroscopy was followed by gross dissection of periarticular soft tissues. Relative portal locations and damage to periarticular structures were recorded. Hips were disarticulated, and an India ink assay was performed to assess whether there was iatrogenic cartilage injury (ICI).ResultsScope insertion was achieved in all hips. Articular cartilage of the femoral head and acetabulum, round ligament, joint capsule, transverse acetabular ligament, and dorsal acetabular rim were identified arthroscopically in all hips. Probe insertion and intra‐articular structure palpation was achieved in all hips. Scope and instrument portals resulted in minimal periarticular muscle trauma. No sciatic nerve damage was detected. Minor partial thickness ICI was observed in all hips at the site of scope insertion. Focal full thickness ICI was noted in one hip.ConclusionArthroscopy of the feline coxofemoral joint allowed visual and probe evaluation of intra‐articular structures without evidence of major periarticular neurovascular trauma. Iatrogenic cartilage injury occurred in all hips but severity of lesions was considered mild.Clinical significanceCoxofemoral arthroscopy is feasible in cats and can be utilized as a diagnostic tool for minimally invasive joint evaluation.