ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

We are excited to announce that we are now offering TPLO and Extracapsular Repair surgery for dogs with Cruciate Disease

Cruciate Disease FAQ

What is Cruciate Disease?

Cruciate Disease in dogs refers to damage or rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in the knee joint. It is one of the most common orthopedic problems in dogs and a major cause of hind-limb lameness

What does the Cruciate Ligament do?

The cranial cruciate ligament stabilizes the knee joint and when the ligament becomes torn or ruptured, the knee becomes unstable, painful, and inflamed

Why does Cruciate Disease happen?

Dogs commonly develop degenerative cruciate disease over time and can be caused by degeneration of the ligament with age, genetics, obesity, or sudden twisting or jumping movements.

What breeds are commonly affected?

Breeds commonly affected include: Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Boxers, and Doodle mixes.

What are the signs of Cruciate Disease?

Typical symptoms can include:

Sudden hind limb lameness
Toe touching
Holding the rear leg up
Clicking in the knee
Some dogs show intermittent lameness if the tear is partial

How is Cruciate Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on orthopedic examination

Treatment Options

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Management

Sometimes considered for very small dogs or dogs that cannot undergo surgery.

Treatments may include:

Strict Rest
Anti-Inflammatory medications
Weight Management
Joint Supplements

However, large dogs often remain chronically unstable without surgery, which can lead to worsening arthritis

Surgical Treatment (most common)

Surgery stabilizes the knee and prevents worsening arthritis

TPLO or Lateral Suture Stabilization may be recommended by your veterinarian based on your dog's age, weight, and lifestyle

TPLO
(Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy)

TPLO surgery is one of the most common and effective surgeries for medium and large sized dogs.

How it works:

The tibia (shin bone) is cut and rotated
- This changes the angle of the knee joint
The new angle prevents the tibia from sliding forward when your dog bears weight
The bone is stabilized with a metal plate and screws

Advantages of surgery

Dogs who undergo TPLO surgery have excellent long-term knee stability. Most dogs can return to normal activity. This surgery is very effective for large dogs

Recovery

8-12 weeks of controlled activity

After 8-12 weeks, a gradual return to normal activity and exercise

Lateral Suture Stabilization
(Extracapsular Repair)

Recovery

6-8 weeks of controlled activity

After 6-8 weeks, a gradual return to normal activity and exercise

Advantages of surgery

This surgery is less invasive and is a lower cost. It is most effective for dogs under 20-25 pounds

Often used for smaller or less active dogs.

How it works:

A strong nylon suture is placed outside the joint
The suture mimics the function of the cruciate ligament and stabilizes the knee while scar tissue forms

Long-Term Outlook

With surgery:

85-95% of dogs regain good function
Arthritis still develops but progresses more slowly

Without surgery:

Chronic instability of the knee joint
Progressive arthritis
Persistent lameness
40-60% of dogs eventually rupture the opposite cruciate ligament