ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries are a common problem for dogs, especially for those who lead active lifestyles. A torn ACL can cause pain and discomfort for your furry friend and can limit their mobility. If you suspect that your dog has an ACL injury, it’s important to act quickly to get them the treatment they need.
In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about ACL repair in dogs. We’ll cover the signs and symptoms of ACL injuries, the different treatment options available, and what you can expect during the recovery period. Whether you’re a concerned pet owner or a veterinarian looking to learn more about ACL repair in dogs, this article has something for everyone. So let’s dive in and help your furry friend get back on their paws!
ACL repair in dog is commonly done in veterinary practice. Surgical repair of a torn anterior cruciate ligament ACL repair in dog actually does nothing to the actual ligament. An artificial suture or cord is placed alongside the joint as if to “fool” the knee joint and permit it to move in a normal fashion. There are a number of methods and materials used to repair a knee after a torn ACL injury. Presented here is one such case.
ACL Repair In Dog
This patient is an eight year old, slightly overweight retriever named Buster who began limping on a rear leg one month ago. Recently, while chasing a Frisbee, he cried out in pain and began to hold the leg up and didn’t get much better after three days. When the owners finally brought him in to be examined the doctor noted a slipping motion in the right knee. Instead of moving like a hinge, the leg just below the knee would actually slide forward and backward. This abnormal motion is typical of a torn ACL, anterior cruciate ligament. Another new procedure is called the TIBEAL PLATEAU LEVELING OSTEOTOMY or TPLO surgery. There will be more about this procedure presented here soon.
“Buster has a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament” the doctor said. “The best way to get him back to full function would be to do a surgical procedure where we place an artificial ligament along the side of the knee joint; we don’t try to fix the torn ligament because that particular one just won’t heal properly. So we fool the knee into thinking that there is a ligament and after a few weeks of confinement your dog can begin using the leg properly.”
“And what if we didn’t do the surgery right now, Doctor, can we wait a few months?” the owner asked.
The doctor responded that the dog probably already has some arthritic changes in the joint since it had been limping for about a month. The ligament had stretched and and the joint had been unstable until finally the ligament tore completely. Any time a joint becomes unstable pathologic changes begin and can progress to the point where permanent damage is done. “I will be able to see some arthritic changes already during surgery so waiting longer to do the corrective surgery would not be in the dog’s best interest…and the results from surgery would be less rewarding” said the doctor.
Come with the doctor and view Buster’s surgery. Oh, and please don’t touch anything! The surgical area needs to be completely sterile…
Post operative care for a dog with a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament needs to be carried out in accordance with the veterinarian’s instructions. Leash walking for up to six weeks may be a requirement in order to allow the necessary healing to be well established before the dog places any real stress in the knee joint. The suture material that the surgeon selects to take over the work of the damaged ACL needs to have a supporting deposition of fibrous tissue which will help stabilize toe knee so that no slippage (called a “drawer slip”) of the femur occurs over the tibia. Slow return to normal may take as long as six months and even longer for older, overweight or large breeds of dogs.
When it comes to your furry friend’s health, it’s important to be proactive and seek treatment when needed. ACL injuries can be painful and debilitating for dogs, but there are effective surgical options available to help them recover and get back to their active lifestyles. If you have any questions or comments about ACL repair in dogs, please let us know in the comments. We are here to help you provide the best possible care for your beloved pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to know about ACL repair for dogs?
ACL repair for dogs involves repairing a torn or ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in their knee joint. The surgery is typically performed by a veterinary surgeon and involves stabilizing the joint using various techniques such as sutures, plates, and screws.
What problems can occur after dog ACL surgery?
There is a possibility that the incision site will fully or partially tear after the procedure. Particularly in the vicinity of the surgical site, tissue damage is likely. Your dog may experience excruciating pain and trauma from the injury, which frequently results in lameness or trouble walking.
What are complications of ACL repair in Dogs?
Complications of ACL repair in dogs may include infection, bleeding, swelling, lameness, and pain. In some cases, the repair may be unsuccessful or the dog may develop arthritis later on. It is important to follow post-surgery instructions carefully to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a successful recovery. Close monitoring and follow-up visits with your veterinarian are also essential.
