Hi Everyone!
My name is Dan, and I am a veterinarian. Today I am talking about the torn ACL in dogs. This is one of the toughest diagnosis for a pet parent, because of the price to fix the ACL. Pet insurance will help with the surgical expenses if your veterinarian recommended surgery.
When a dog tears their ACL, it typically causes lameness and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected leg. You may notice your dog limping, holding the leg up, or showing signs of pain. It's important to consult with a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
The treatment for a dog's ACL tear can vary depending on the severity of the injury, the size and age of the dog, and other factors. Here are some common treatment options:
Conservative Management: In some cases, conservative management may be recommended, especially for small dogs or those with partial tears. This approach involves rest, restricted activity, and pain management with medication. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises may also be part of the treatment plan.
Surgery: For most dogs with a complete ACL tear or larger breeds, surgical intervention is usually recommended. There are different surgical techniques available, including:
Extracapsular Repair: This procedure involves placing a suture outside the joint to stabilize the knee.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO): This surgery alters the angle of the tibia bone to stabilize the knee joint.
Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA): Similar to TPLO, TTA changes the angle of the tibia to stabilize the knee joint.
The choice of surgical technique will depend on various factors, and your veterinarian will recommend the most appropriate option for your dog.
Recovery from an ACL tear and surgery can take several months. It usually involves restricted activity, physical therapy, and rehabilitation exercises to help strengthen the leg muscles and regain mobility.
Remember, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your dog's specific needs. They can provide you with detailed information about the options available and guide you through the recovery process.
TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) is a surgical procedure commonly used to treat dogs with a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in their knee. It is one of the surgical techniques available for stabilizing the knee joint and promoting healing.
Evaluation: The veterinarian will assess your dog's condition through a physical examination, possibly including X-rays or other imaging techniques. This evaluation helps determine if TPLO surgery is suitable for your dog.
Pre-operative preparations: Prior to surgery, your dog may undergo blood tests and other diagnostic procedures to ensure they are in good health for the procedure. The veterinarian may also provide instructions regarding fasting before surgery.
Anesthesia: On the day of surgery, your dog will be given anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and unconscious during the procedure.
Incision and bone preparation: The surgeon will make an incision on the side of your dog's knee to access the joint. The damaged ACL is typically removed, as it cannot heal on its own. The surgeon will then prepare the tibial bone by making a circular cut in the top portion of the bone.
Bone stabilization: The cut portion of the tibial bone is repositioned to change the angle of the knee joint. The new angle is determined based on the individual dog's anatomy. Metal plates and screws are used to secure the bone in its new position, allowing the tibial plateau to level out.
Closure: Once the bone has been stabilized, the surgeon will close the incision using sutures or staples. They may also place a bandage or dressing over the incision site.
Recovery and rehabilitation: After surgery, your dog will be closely monitored during the initial recovery period. Pain medications and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection. The veterinarian will provide instructions on post-operative care, including restrictions on activity, rehabilitation exercises, and follow-up appointments.
Disclaimer: This video is just for educational and entertainment purposes. Please consult with your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
