Cruciate ligament ruptures are, unfortunately, a common orthopedic injury in dogs that may even require surgery to repair. Here, our Oceanside vets discuss cruciate ligament injuries in dogs, and how surgery such as TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement) can help to get them back on their feet and feeling good again.
What happens when my dog sustains a cruciate ligament rupture?
The Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) in dogs is equivalent to the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) in humans.
The CCL is a connective tissue in the knee that connects and stabilizes the lower leg to the upper leg. It joins a dog’s tibia to the femur above that when torn, results in partial or complete joint instability, pain, and immobility.
What are the symptoms of a cruciate ligament rupture in dogs?
Eighty percent of cranial cruciate ligament tears in dog are chronic onset ruptures that are caused by degeneration, usually due to aging. This is most commonly seen in dogs ages five to seven.
Acute onset ruptures are most commonly seen in pups four years or younger. These tears are caused by injuries a dog will sustain just running around living their daily lives.
Symptoms of a cranial cruciate ligament rupture may include:
- 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 pup.
What is TTA Surgery for dogs and how does it work?
When a dog experiences a cruciate ligament rupture, the knee will lose the stability necessary to perform as expected. This instability will cause the shin bone to move forward in such a way that your dog feels as though it will not lock in place, and most likely, your dog will limp to avoid this feeling.
When a dog undergoes Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA) surgery, the shape of the knee is changed, allowing the muscles to help with stabilization. Your dog will then feel as though the knee has been stabilized, even though the ligament itself is still technically damaged.
There is a risk of complication with a surgical procedure of this magnitude, and as such, it will only be performed when it is the best option for the cruciate injury that your dog has sustained.
Recovery After TTA Surgery For Cruciate Injuries in Dogs
Healing from TTA surgery is generally rapid.- 24 Hours Post Op: Approximately 50% of dogs that have undergone this surgical procedure will be walking by this time.
- At two weeks: Most of the dogs will be able to bear moderate to complete amounts of weight on the leg.
- By 10 weeks: The majority of the dogs will no longer be walking with a limp.
- At four months: Most dogs will be playing as usual with the only limitations being high-stress activities.
- Within six months: Most dogs will be back to enjoying most activities as they had been prior to injury and surgery.
Throughout recovery, pain management and rehabilitation therapy will be crucial to how well your dog heals. Your dog's vet with work with you both to ensure that there is a complete recovery care plan set in place for your dog prior to the TTA surgery.
How much does dog TTA surgery cost?
TTA surgery will cost will vary depending on the severity of your dog's injury, the size of your dog, their age, and your location. Contact your veterinarian for more specific pricing.
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.
