Radiographic and arthroscopic findings in the equine stifle.

The radiographic and arthroscopic findings in the equine stifle were compared. Survey radiography, contrast arthrography, and arthroscopy were performed on both stifles of 10 horses. Nine of the horses were euthanatized to evaluate the effects of the techniques on the joints. Techniques for double-contrast arthrography and arthroscopy were developed, and the findings were compared. Survey radiography identified only osseous structures. Double-contrast arthrography of the femoropatellar joint demonstrated articular surfaces of the trochlea, patella, and joint capsule. Those of the femorotibial joint defined the medial meniscus but not the lateral meniscus. On arthroscopy of the femoropatellar joint, intra-articular structures could be readily visualized. In the femorotibial sacs, structures were more difficult to identify. Gross examination of the stifle joint at necropsy revealed no overt effects of arthroscopy.