Spatial Subchondral Bone Density Reflecting Joint Loading of the Talus in Different Canidae.

Objective:  Subchondral bone density distribution can be used to study joint biomechanics non-invasively. Differences in joint loading between related species can aid in the understanding of joint loading and the development of certain types of orthopaedic pathology. This study was conducted to evaluate density distribution in the subchondral bone of the talus of different species, as a parameter reflecting the long-term joint loading in the tarsocrural joint.

Materials And Methods:  The tarsal joints of cadaveric dogs of different breeds were included, that is, German Shepherd ( = 5), Bouvier des Flandres ( = 3) and Labrador Retriever ( = 6).Additionally, golden jackals ( = 5) () and wolves ( = 5) () were included. Consecutive computed tomography slices were made and the subchondral bone density distribution was evaluated using computer tomographic osteoabsorptiometry. Different breeds and species were visually compared.

Results:  Differences were found in the subchondral bone density distribution of the talus between breeds and between species (, Canis and ).

Discussion And Conclusion:  Based on the density distribution, there are differences in loading conditions of the tarsocrural joint in different species of . The joint loading distribution is very similar between dogs of the same breed and within the same species. Although between-breed differences can be explained by conformational differences, the between-species differences remain subject to further research.