We have previously discussed what Cranial Cruciate Ligament rupture in dogs is and we have mentioned the different procedures and surgical techniques for treatment. In this article, we will discuss one of the treatment methods that is widely used in most referral centers that work in orthopedics.
Before we can talk about the treatment, a short explanation again about ligament rupture in dogs.
The cranial cruciate ligament is one of the ligaments that plays a role in supporting the knee joining while moving. When it undergoes a degenerative process it becomes more susceptible to rupture. It is considered that this is one of the most common reasons why owners bring their dogs for orthopedic consultation.
There are different techniques for treating this condition, such as:
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy
Tibial Tuberosity Advancement
TightRope Technique
Lateral Suture Technique
Symptoms of CCL rupture in dogs
Dogs that have ruptured ligaments may show some signs of pain but it usually goes away and owners don’t always pay attention to that. However, those dogs usually develop other issues with their knee joint and the most common one is osteoarthritis, which can be quite painful. Sometimes, owners report that they see their dog sitting in a specific “lazy” position, with their back limb going to the side. This is a telltale sign that their dog may have a torn ligament.
What is TTA in dogs?
TTA involves cutting the top of the tibia, which is also known as the shin bone, moving it forward, and then stabilizing it using custom-made plates. When the cranial cruciate ligament ruptures, it causes the tibia to move forwards so that the knee can compensate for the pressure that is put on the joint from the femur.
The purpose of this procedure is to move the tibial plateau forward so that the normal anatomy of the joint is returned to its previous state.
How is TTA in dogs performed?
Before the surgery can be performed, the dog may need some additional x-rays and examinations to be performed. The purpose of the examination is to better feel if there are any other abnormalities present in the knee and the x-ray helps the surgeons determine the presence of osteoarthritis and the current position of the tibia.
The surgery itself involves cutting in the tibial bone so that it can be advanced to the correct position and then stabilized. Many times, surgeons also check the joint itself, to see if there is any damage to the ligaments and the menisci. Whenever there is damage, they are properly removed.
Once the surgery is done, the dog is taken once again for an x-ray so that the surgeon can determine if the position of the bone and implant is correct. The dog is then given antibiotics and heavy pain medication and let to rest.
My dog had Tibial Tuberosity Advancement surgery, what should I do at home?
Postoperative care is more important than the surgery itself. These dogs usually require a strict non-movement policy and cage rest for a couple of weeks. Usually, after the first couple of weeks, the veterinary surgeon will recommend physiotherapy.
Owners usually pay between 3000 and 6000$ for this surgery.
