Where do they cut ligaments for dogs? - briefly
The most common site for ligament surgery in dogs is the knee joint (stifle), specifically the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). This procedure, known as Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) or Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA), aims to stabilize the joint and restore function.
Where do they cut ligaments for dogs? - in detail
The decision to perform surgery on a dog's ligament, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), is typically made after a thorough examination and diagnosis by a veterinarian. This procedure is often necessary when a dog suffers from a torn or ruptured ligament, which can cause significant pain, lameness, and instability in the affected joint, most commonly the stifle (knee) joint.
To address this issue, veterinary surgeons employ several surgical techniques, each with its own approach to cutting and repairing the damaged ligament. Here are some of the most common methods:
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Extra-Capsular Repair: This technique involves making an incision on the outside of the joint capsule, which is the tough membrane surrounding the stifle joint. The surgeon then cuts through the soft tissue to access and repair the damaged ligament using sutures or specialized implants designed to stabilize the joint.
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Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO): In this procedure, the veterinarian makes an incision along the side of the tibia bone. The surgeon then cuts through the bone to perform an osteotomy, or surgical fracture, which allows them to rotate and flatten the top surface of the tibia (tibial plateau). This realignment helps to stabilize the joint and redistribute weight away from the damaged ligament.
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Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA): Similar to the TPLO, this method also involves an incision along the side of the tibia bone. The surgeon cuts through the bone to create a segment that is then advanced forward, effectively lengthening the tibia. This adjustment alters the biomechanics of the joint, reducing stress on the damaged ligament and promoting healing.
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Lateral Suture Technique: In this approach, the veterinarian makes an incision near the lateral aspect of the stifle joint. The surgeon then cuts through the soft tissue to place a suture around the femur bone, just above the knee joint. This suture acts as a pseudo-ligament, providing stability and support to the affected area.
Regardless of the specific technique employed, the goal of ligament surgery in dogs is to restore joint function and alleviate pain. Post-operative care typically includes a period of restricted activity, physical therapy, and follow-up evaluations to ensure proper healing and recovery.