As a responsible pet parent, you want to understand and provide the best care for your dog at every stage of their life. In this blog, we discuss an important health topic for dogs: Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) disease, and one of the most recommended surgical procedures for treating it, known as Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO).
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease in Dogs
The cranial cruciate ligament, similar to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in humans, is a crucial stabilizer of the knee joint in dogs. Its role is to stabilize the joint and prevent abnormal movement of the knee, particularly rotation and forward thrust of the tibia (shin bone). When this ligament gets damaged, it can lead to instability, pain, and eventually arthritis in the affected knee.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament disease, or CCL disease, is unfortunately common in dogs, especially among certain breeds like Labradors, Rottweilers, and Bulldogs, though it can affect any breed. It can occur due to sudden trauma, but more often it’s a result of gradual wear and tear, often leading to partial or complete rupture of the ligament.
CCL disease can lead to significant discomfort, limping, inflammation, and a reduced quality of life for your dog. Left untreated, it can cause chronic degenerative changes, like arthritis, and a significant decrease in mobility and function. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for your dog’s well-being.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO)
One of the most effective treatments for CCL disease is a surgical procedure known as Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, or TPLO. This procedure changes the biomechanics of the knee joint to neutralize the forces that cause the abnormal motion of the tibia.
During a TPLO, the veterinary surgeon rotates the top surface of the tibia, the tibial plateau, to a more level position. This involves making a circular cut in the tibia, rotating the cut segment to the desired angle, and then stabilizing it using a plate and screws. By leveling the tibial plateau, the knee joint becomes stable during weight-bearing, eliminating the need for the CCL and thus relieving the associated symptoms.
Canine TPLO surgery typically results in a faster and more complete return to normal activity compared to other treatment methods. However, as with any surgical procedure, it is not without risks and potential complications, such as infection, fracture, and implant failure. It’s important to follow post-surgery care instructions from your vet to mitigate these risks and ensure a successful recovery.
Post-Surgery and Recovery
After a TPLO procedure, your dog will need careful management during recovery. You’ll need to restrict your dog’s activity levels and follow a strict rehabilitation schedule provided by your vet. Regular check-ups will ensure the bone is healing correctly and that your dog is regaining function in their leg. Usually, dogs can return to their normal activity levels in 6-10 weeks, with full recovery seen at 3 to 6 months after surgery.
While TPLO is a complex surgery, it has a high success rate, with most dogs returning to near normal function and a pain-free life post-recovery. As always, the best source of advice on treating CCL disease is your trusted veterinarian.
CCL disease can seem daunting, but with understanding and proactive care, you can support your dog through this challenge. Whether your companion is bouncing back from surgery or you’re taking preventive measures, remember that every step you take is in pursuit of a happy, healthy life for your best friend.