Why and how do dogs tear their cranial cruciate ligament?
There are generally two ways a dog’s cranial cruciate ligament can rupture. The first way is similar to a sports injury in people. Like a basketball player who plants his leg aggressively and then tears his ACL, a dog’s CCL may suddenly rupture from excessive force and leave the dog with an unstable and painful knee.
What is Cranial cruciate rupture?
Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture is the tearing of an important ligament in the stifle joint (knee), resulting in partial or complete joint instability, pain, and lameness. The CCL attaches to the femur (thigh bone), runs across the stifle joint, and attaches to the tibia (shin bone).
What can go wrong with cruciate ligament surgery in dogs?
Reported complication rates following cruciate surgery up to 32% have been reported and include late meniscal injury, joint or soft tissue infection, osteomyelitis, seroma, screw loosening, fracture (tibia, fibula, patella), distal limb oedema, implant failure, patella luxation, neurological deficits, wound dehiscence.
Can a torn cruciate ligament heal itself in dogs?
Brumett said dogs who have a cruciate ligament rupture that don’t have surgery, rehab or bracing can develop some level of stability on their own in six to 12 months – but these dogs typically are not comfortable going on long walks, running or jumping. With a brace a dog can be back out playing in a just few weeks.
What happens after a dog’s CCL surgery?
The recovery period following an extensive orthopedic surgery will require rehabilitation for the best outcome. You can anticipate that your dog will need rest and exercise restrictions for 8-12 weeks. This allows the incision and bone to heal and the knee function to return. Most dogs recover in about 8 weeks.
Is a dog in pain with a torn ACL?
At the moment when the ACL tears, a dog will experience sudden pain and often hold their leg up. Depending on the severity of the tear, they may then avoid putting any weight on the leg for a day or so, and when they do use it again will have a limp that often continues for several weeks.
Can a cruciate ligament heal itself in dogs?
It is entirely possible for a dog to recover from an ACL tear without surgery. Many dogs heal through surgery alternatives like orthopedic braces and supplements.
