Dogs' quality of life is negatively impacted by Canine Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) tears, which are a common cause of hind limb lameness. Even though rehabilitation is frequently the first course of treatment, surgery might be necessary in certain circumstances. We discuss the surgical options for CCL tears in this blog post, offering helpful information about the Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA), Lateral Suture, and Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) procedures.
For smaller or less active dogs, the Lateral Suture technique—also called Extracapsular Suture Stabilization—is a frequently used procedure, and analogous to ACL repairs in humans. A robust suture is positioned outside the joint during this procedure to stabilize the knee and make up for the torn ligament. Though this method works well in some situations, the possibility of suture failure makes it unsuitable for larger or more energetic breeds.
When choosing the Lateral Suture procedure over more involved surgeries, pet owners can anticipate a quicker recovery period, however, postoperative rehabilitation is essential for the best outcome to help correct for muscle imbalances and improve strength so the joint is fully supported.
A more sophisticated surgical option called TPLO treats the biomechanical alterations in the knee joint brought on by a CCL tear. In order to counteract the abnormal forces acting on the joint and increase stability, the tibial plateau will be cut and repositioned during this procedure. For larger or more active breeds of dogs, TPLO is frequently advised.
A benefit of TPLO is its ability to return to regular activity levels more quickly. The process modifies the mechanics of the joint, lowering the long-term risk of arthritis. Comparisons can be made between TPLO and Lateral Suture, however, TPLO is a more involved procedure that requires more healing time and money.
TTA, like TPLO, attempts to stabilize the knee joint by altering its biomechanics when a functional CCL is not present. By moving the tibial tuberosity forward, TTA improves joint stability and modifies the forces acting on the knee. This technique, which offers advantages in terms of stability and recovery time, is regarded as a compromise between TPLO and Lateral Suture.
Pet owners who are thinking about TTA should know that it is a more involved surgery than the Lateral Suture, just like TPLO. TTA, however, might be a good choice for dogs of different sizes and activity levels.
When making a decision on how to handle a CCL tear, it is important to consult with your veterinarian and canine rehab therapist to determine the best course of action.
Whether it’s a CCL injury or another issue that you would like to address, you are always welcome to reach out to Happy Paws Rehab for help. We will answer your questions and help you understand the treatment options we provide. Rest assured that you will be working with someone who cares as much about the health of your dog as you do, and we’ll work hard to help guide your pet back to optimum health.
Visit our website, HERE, or call (321) 319-4008 to request an appointment. Consult with Happy Paws Rehab's specialists to navigate the world of non-surgical options and ensure the best possible outcome for your beloved companion. For specialized treatments, check out our Canine Laser Therapy, Canine Manual Therapy, and Torn ACL/CCL Treatment for Dogs.
