Veterinary Orthopedic Surgeons Use Human Technique To Repair Canine CCL

Veterinary Orthopedic Surgeons have developed a procedure to repair the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) problems in dogs, that is used in humans. Adapted from human ankle surgeries, the surgeons clean up the joint tissue and meniscus of the knee, stabilizing the ligament. With a small incision, they insert a device into the leg that ultimately replaces the function of the ligament. The surgeon drills a hole through the bones to anchor it in place.

This is an X-ray of a CCL repair

Every year, about 1 million canines undergo surgery for torn ligaments in their knees. I suspect most of these are the working breeds and bird dog breeds.

This surgery is quicker and it's an easier way to ease their pain. The procedure has less potential for serious complications with a quicker recovery time than traditional surgery that actually involves cutting the dogs bone.

The surgery costs $2200.00 - 2400.00 and the dog is back on his feet in about 12 weeks with little sign of injury. The dog must be healthy and weigh more than 40 pounds, in order to have thick enough bones to endure the drilling for the connection.

IF you'd like to read more and see a little film clip explaining the surgery, please click here:

Science Da1ly Orthopedic Video