Abstract
Introduction
The rabbit common calcanean (Achilles) tendon is a compound apparatus frequently used in studies considering novel interventions to facilitate tendon regeneration. These studies often employ complete surgical transection of the apparatus. Due consideration of the translational relevance to human tendinopathy is often lacking and refinement of this injury model, consistent with the principles of the 3Rs, has not been forthcoming.
Materials and Methods
Wild rabbit cadavers (n=10) were obtained from a licensed game dealer. For gross anatomy studies the caudal crus was dissected and transverse sections obtained every 5 mm. Ultrasongraphic examination of the entire apparatus was peformed with a 15 Hz transducer in transverse sections.
Results
This study reannotates the apparatus and demonstrates that the principal structures, the superficial digital flexor tendon and medial and lateral gastrocnemius tendons, may be clearly identified by ultrasonographic examination.
Discussion
Historical descriptions of the rabbit Achilles apparatus are shown to be inaccurate and follow human gross anatomical descriptions. Ultrasonographic identification of the constituent structures in the rabbit are poorly represented in the literature. Reference measurements and qualitative descriptions are provided that may facilitate the development of refined surgical techniques for in vivo studies of tendon regeneration in the rabbit beyond crude transection studies.
