Achilles Tendon Reconstruction in Cats: Which Implant Should Be Used?
09-04-2025
The use of the L-ten, specifically designed to treat tendon ruptures, depends solely on the size of the bone tunnels that can be created. In this case (Achilles tendon rupture in a 3.5 kg cat), the L-ten was not suitable for its size, as it required a bone tunnel of too large a diameter.
Therefore, the Z-lig 16 fibers was chosen.
With a resistance of 2,000 Newtons, this compact implant is perfectly suited for use in cats. It requires the creation of a 2.5 mm diameter bone tunnel, along with the placement of a 3.0 mm interference screw to hold it securely in place.
Operated on its right hind limb by Dr. N. Chailleux in 2023, here are some images taken two years after surgery.
The recommended surgical technique allows for a postoperative period with minimal constraints for both the animal and its owner, ensuring optimal recovery:
- Immediate mobility, no external fixator: a dorsal splint and a Robert Jones bandage for 5 to 6 weeks, allowing controlled partial weight-bearing.
- The unique porosity of the free fibers (placed at the rupture site) promotes colonization by fibroblasts, enabling the formation of new collagen aligned with the direction of tension.
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Training session dedicated to the use of Z-lig®
2025-04-07
Recap of Our Training on Using Z-lig® for Cranial Cruciate Ligament ReconstructionThe 6th of April, participants had the opportunity to:Discover the strong legacy of STIF – Pet Care in human surgery and its expertise in veterinary orthopedics.Explore the evolution of our free fibers technology, specifically adapted for veterinary surgery.Learn more about current and potential applications, and practice the cranial cruciate ligament reconstruction technique in dogs. In the morning, participants focused on theory and discussion around the fundamental principles.In the afternoon, hands-on work on anatomical specimens: participants performed a cranial cruciate ligament reconstruction in dogs, carefully reviewing each technical step to master all the essential aspects—especially the details that optimize post-operative recovery and ensure long-term stability of the results.A warm thank you to our instructors, Drs. Antonio Munhoz & Geoffrey Pagès (Dipl. ECVS), for their expertise and teaching skills, and to Neo Animalia for its commitment to high-quality training.📆 Upcoming sessions in this format: September 27 (EN) & September 28 (FR), 2025 📍 Louvain-La-Neuve 📩 Registration is open : sign up now.
Severe stifle sprain in a cat : treatment with a Z‑lig® 16 / 10 fibers (UHMWPE) implant
2025-03-05
Operated by Dr. Antonio Munhoz (AGY Veterinary Center 🇨🇭), this 5 kg cat underwent two ligament reconstructions (CrCL and CdCL) using two Z-lig® 16 fibers implants, each with 10 mm of free fiber length and screws of ø 3.0mm.Given the importance of bone tunnel precision, the use of our surgical aiming device was helpful for a patient of this size. After adjusting the free fibers (🔑 essential for cranial cruciate ligament reconstruction!) within the active zone of the joint (tension, flexion, and torsion), a range of motion test and implant fixation were performed. Stability was restored in all joint positions.Video after CrCL and CaCL reconstruction
3 years after surgery with Z-lig®
2025-02-06
Follow-up from 2 weeks to 3 years post-surgery:Three years after his surgery in December 2021, we had the pleasure of seeing this Belgian Malinois again, operated on with the Z-lig® (UHMWPE) 48 / 19 fibers (6 000 N) implant.Video – 2 weeks post-surgery: During a clinical examination with the referring veterinarian, followed by a training session, the results were very encouraging:Stable stifleNo joint laxityNo residual lamenessFull endurance during daily activitiesWe are pleased to see that STIF – Pet Care, with its uniquely engineered implant technology, is helping to advance the surgical treatment of ligament and tendon injuries in both dogs and cats.The recommended surgical techniques ensure a fast recovery for the animal and peace of mind for pet owners during the post-operative period.Video 3 years after surgery:
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To discover the R&D process of our innovations and to learn about the surgical techniques we offer, with expert trainers.
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To discover the R&D process of our innovations and to learn about the surgical techniques we offer, with expert trainers.