Description
In this presentation, Eithne Comerford discusses the crucial role of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in both humans and dogs, drawing parallels between the two species while highlighting the differences in the commonality of ACL injuries. She emphasizes the importance of a collaborative learning approach in veterinary medicine, referencing contributions from her colleagues Chris, Joel, and Debbie. Throughout her talk, Comerford touches on various aspects including the anatomy of the cruciate ligaments, the implications of injuries, and the onset of osteoarthritis in both dogs and humans, dealing with acute and non-contact injuries.
Comerford shares insights from her research on canine and human ACL injuries, using dogs as models for studying naturally occurring conditions due to their rapid progression of osteoarthritis. She contrasts the differences in ligament structure and composition between high-risk and low-risk dog breeds, particularly the differences in labrador retrievers compared to sight hounds like greyhounds, who rarely rupture their cruciate ligaments.
Throughout her presentation, Comerford emphasizes the genetic and biomechanical influences on ACL injuries and the necessity for further research into treatment modalities and prevention strategies. She calls for a proactive approach to identifying at-risk individuals by leveraging advancements in medical imaging and biomedical understanding. The session concludes with a reflection on the interplay between natural pathology in both human and canine models, reaffirming the importance of understanding the biological underpinnings of ligament health to advance treatment options.