The Ultimate Guide to Cruciate Repair Surgery in Dogs

Cruciate ligament injuries are a common occurrence in dogs, especially in active breeds or overweight pets. When conservative management fails to improve the condition, veterinarians may recommend cruciate repair surgery to restore stability and function to the affected knee joint. But what exactly does this surgery entail? Let's dive into the ultimate guide to cruciate repair surgery in dogs.

What is Cruciate Repair Surgery?

Cruciate repair surgery, also known as cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) surgery, aims to stabilize the knee joint by addressing the torn ligament. The most common surgical techniques include extracapsular repair, tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO), and tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA). These procedures help prevent further damage to the joint and improve the dog's quality of life.

When is Surgery Necessary?

Cruciate repair surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications do not provide significant improvement. Dogs with severe lameness, joint instability, and persistent pain may benefit from surgical intervention to address the underlying ligament damage.

Benefits of Cruciate Repair Surgery

Studies have shown that cruciate repair surgery can significantly improve the long-term prognosis for dogs with ligament injuries. By restoring stability to the knee joint, surgery can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent the development of secondary osteoarthritis. In fact, up to 85% of dogs show good to excellent outcomes following cruciate repair surgery.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

After surgery, dogs will require a period of rest and restricted activity to allow the surgical site to heal properly, a hind leg sleeve is a must to protect and support the leg while it is healing.  Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises may be recommended to help strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint and improve range of motion. Most dogs can return to normal activity levels within 3 to 6 months post-surgery.

Potential Complications

While cruciate repair surgery is generally safe and effective, there are potential risks and complications associated with any surgical procedure. These may include infection, implant failure, delayed healing, and the development of scar tissue. It is important for pet owners to follow post-operative care instructions closely to minimize the risk of complications.

Overall, cruciate repair surgery can be a life-changing procedure for dogs suffering from ligament injuries. By understanding the process and potential outcomes of this surgery, pet owners can make informed decisions about their furry friend's healthcare. Consult with a veterinary surgeon to determine the best course of action for your dog's specific condition.