Companion Animals

Dog Cruciate Ligament Injuries: Surgical Options

Cruciate ligament rupture is the most common orthopaedic injury in dogs, with several surgical techniques available offering different welfare and recovery profiles.

Key Facts

Cranial cruciate ligament rupture affects up to 2.5% of dogs annually in the US
Large and giant breeds are at highest risk, with Labrador Retrievers overrepresented
Tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) and tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) are the main surgical approaches
Without surgery, progressive osteoarthritis and meniscal damage cause chronic pain
Full recovery typically takes 4-6 months with appropriate rehabilitation

Welfare Considerations

Cruciate rupture causes acute pain and lameness. Without surgical stabilisation, dogs face progressive deterioration from joint instability, secondary osteoarthritis, and frequent meniscal tears. The waiting period before surgery involves pain that requires effective analgesia. Post-surgical rehabilitation including controlled exercise, physiotherapy, and hydrotherapy significantly improves outcomes and reduces recovery time.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary assessment promptly if your dog shows sudden or progressive hind limb lameness
Discuss surgical options with a veterinary orthopaedic specialist
Provide adequate analgesia during the pre-surgical period
Commit to the full rehabilitation programme post-surgery
Maintain healthy body weight to reduce stress on joints before and after surgery