CRANIAL CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RUPTURE

What is cruciate disease?

Cruciate ligament disease is a common cause of lameness in dogs. Both knees in the back legs can be affected. After the onset of lameness, arthritis and joint instability cause continuing deterioration in limb function.

Thankfully, your vet can resolve the lameness and get your pet back to a happy, active lifestyle.

How can surgery help?

Surgery is performed to stabilise the joint and remove any injury to the cartilage cushion inside the joint, the meniscus. Without surgery, the joint can remain unstable, recovery can be slow and your pet may remain lame.

What is a TPLO?

OssAbility Guided TPLO is a surgical treatment your vet can tailor specifically to your pet. It is only performed by vets that are trained and confident in the procedure. TPLO is the gold-standard surgery for treating cruciate disease because it provides the best long term limb function.

What can go wrong?

Complications are uncommon but can occur with any surgical procedure.

Complications include infection, fracture, kneecap dislocation, injury to the meniscus after surgery, or anaesthetic-related problems, including death. If a problem occurs, your vet can usually resolve it. Occasionally a second surgery is required, although this is uncommon.

How can I avoid complications?

Confinement to a small area, such as a crate, is essential for the first six weeks after surgery. You can take your pet for short controlled lead-only walks. However, there can be no unrestricted activity in the house or backyard, and no play with other dogs.

It is vital your pet does not lick the surgical site: your vet can provide a collar to prevent this. Strictly follow your vet’s postoperative instructions.

If your pet suddenly becomes lame, you should visit your vet as this is not normal. What’s the next step?

If you decide to proceed with surgery, your vet will ask you to sign that you understand the procedure and risks. With your permission, you may be contacted by OssAbility to collect information from your pet’s procedure and recovery. This helps make the system better for other patients.

Who is OssAbility?

OssAbility is a veterinary medical device company dedicated to helping vets perform advanced orthopaedic surgery safely. Find out more at ossability.com.