All that running and playing that dogs do can lead to both sudden and repeated use injuries like those to their limbs and ligaments. Our New Ulm vets talk about how a cranial cruciate ligament injury may happen and how CCL surgery can help get your dog moving comfortably again.
What is the cranial cruciate ligament?
The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is a connective tissue in the knee that connects and stabilizes the lower leg to the upper leg. It connects a dog’s tibia to the femur above that when torn, results in partial or complete joint instability, pain, and immobility. These CCL injuries in dogs are very similar to ACL injuries in humans as they both occur in the connective knee tissue for similar reasons.
CCL Injury in Dogs
Regarding CCL tears in dogs, 80% of cases are chronic onset ruptures caused by degeneration and usually occur due to aging. This commonly occurs in dogs between the ages of five and seven.
In younger dogs, acute ruptures are more likely to happen. These tears are caused by injuries a dog will sustain just running around living their daily lives.
Some of the common symptoms of a CCL injury in dogs are:
- Crepitus (crackling noise of bones rubbing against each other)
- Decreased range of motion
- Hind leg extension while sitting
- Pain when the joint is touched
- Lack of motivation to exercise
- Irritability
- Restricted mobility
- Stiffness after exercising
- Swelling/Inflammation
- Thick/firm feel of the joint
- Weight shifted to one side of the body while standing
- "Pop" sound when walking
If you notice any of the listed symptoms above, contact your vet and schedule an examination for your dog.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for a CCL Injury
In dogs under 30 pounds, there is a possibility of recovery that doesn't require surgery through ample rest, anti-inflammatories, and physical rehabilitation. This is dependent upon the size of your pet, their overall health, and the severity of your dog’s CCL injury.
Speak with your vet or the veterinary surgeon to discuss the recommended treatment for your dog.
CCL Surgery for Dogs
CCL surgery is commonly performed on dogs and is estimated to make up about 85% of all orthopedic surgeries performed every year on dogs. Given that this is such a common injury, several procedures have been developed over the years to repair the ligament. Each technique has its pros and cons, so it is important to discuss the options with your veterinarian to determine which procedure would be best for your dog's situation. Below are the most common methods of repairing the injury.
Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is the least invasive means of visualizing the structures of the stifle, the cranial, and caudal cruciate ligaments. The technique offers enhanced visualization and magnification of the joint structures. The technology developed for this procedure allows for minimal surgical incisions for partial CCL and meniscus tears. This method may not be an option for completely torn ligaments.
Lateral Suture or Extracapsular
Often recommended for small to medium-sized dogs, this surgery stabilizes the stifle (knee) through the use of sutures placed on the outside of the joint. This is one of the most frequently performed surgeries for this type of injury and is usually performed on dogs that weigh under 50 pounds.
TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement)
TTA is a method of surgery that corrects the need for the CCL by cutting the top of the tibia, moving it forward, and stabilizing it in its new position using a plate. Therefore, the goal with TTA is to replace the ligament entirely, rather than repair it.
TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy)
TPLO surgery is becoming increasingly popular and is the best option for larger dog breeds. The procedure entails cutting and leveling the tibial plateau. From there, the surgeon stabilizes the tibial plateau using a plate and screws. This surgery also eliminates the need for the ligament.
CCL Surgery for Dogs: Post-Op Recovery
No matter which operation is performed to repair the ligament, it is the care your dog receives after surgery that will determine how successful the operation is. The first 12 weeks following surgery are a crucial time for recovery and rehabilitation. Limited exercise and encouraging your pup to use their leg are keys to a successful recovery.
Once two weeks have passed since surgery, you can begin to take your dog on leashed walks. Be sure to take it slow.
By the eighth week, your dog should be able to take two 20-minute walks each day and perform some of their basic daily living activities.
After ten weeks post-operatively, your vet will take x-rays to assess how the bone is healing. Your dog will be able to be able to resume normal activities gradually. We at New Ulm Regional Veterinary Center recommend a rehabilitation program to optimize your dog’s recovery.
Whatever rehabilitation facility you attend should have experience in post-op recovery from orthopedic injuries such as the TPLO.
Some dogs have also experienced positive results via acupuncture treatments and laser therapy.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.