Morphology of the musculus articularis genus in dog with description of ectopic muscle spindles

Histochemical analyses of glycosaminoglycans in the synovial membrane of the canine knee joint

The accurate localization and nature of glycosaminoglycans in the synovial membrane of the canine knee joint were examined histochemically by means of the selective sensitized diamine procedures based upon high and low iron diamine stainings in combination with enzyme digestions. Using these methods, it was possible to clearly and easily detect exceedingly small amounts of glycosaminoglycans in synovial tissues, which cannot be visualized by methods employed to date. The sensitized high iron diamine (S-HID) procedure resulted in positive reactions of varying intensities in the intercellular matrix of synovial intima, and in the extracellular matrix and small capillary walls of the superficial layer in the synovial subintima, and also reacted vividly in the extracellular matrix and blood vessel walls of the deeper layer in the synovial subintima. In particular, the sensitized low iron diamine (S-LID) procedure resulted in positive reactions of the extracellular matrix in the synovial subintimal layers. The S-HID and S-LID procedures combined with the enzyme digestions proved that glycosaminoglycan molecular species such as chondroitin sulfate A/C, dermatan sulfate, heparan sulfate and hyaluronic acid are present in various concentrations in the synovial membrane of the canine knee joint. The present results were discussed with reference to the histophysiological and pathophysiological functions of glycosaminoglycans in the synovium of domestic mammals.

Mini review of canine stifle joint anatomy

The stifle is a complex, condylar, synovial joint that allows motion in three planes. The complexity of the normal motion is directly related to the structure and functions of the anatomical components that form the joint. Alteration in any one of these components often leads to dysfunction as well as an increased risk of damage to other structures in the joint. Thus understanding of the normal anatomy and function of each stifle joint component is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment of any stifle joint injury. This review highlights the basic anatomy and function of the stifle joint components.