Lameness in Dogs (Continued)
Novemeber 11, 2011
Methods of correcting a torn CCL are numerous which means none of them worked very well until the tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) and the tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) were introduced as an option for correcting the problem. The procedures that are used most often today are the TPLO, TTA, lateral suture, intracapsular and extracapsular repair. All of the procedures are described on the internet. We use all of them depending on the size of the dog and the life style it leads. Our best results have been with the TPLO which returns the dogs to near normal and greatly reduces the progression of arthritis. The TTA also works well. Some surgeons do just the TPLO procedure while others do just the TTA. We do both depending on the dog’s needs and size.
Post operative care includes the following:
- Strict restriction of activity. Leash walk only, crate or place in a small room for 6 – 8 weeks when you are not at home.
- Ice packs of the on the incision three times daily for 10-15 minutes each time for the first week then switch to hot packs if the leg is still swollen.
- Antibiotics for two weeks.
- Pain medication for two to six weeks.
- Keep the incision clean and dry.
- The leash walks can be increased in length by a block every two to three days after the first two weeks.
- We radiograph the leg every two weeks until we are sure the bone is healed. The bone is considered healed at eight to ten weeks, but remodeling of the bone takes much longer (months).
- The plate stays in place permanently unless there is a reaction to it at a later date (about 2-3%). The only solution if there is a reaction is to remove the plate.
If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to contact us at the clinic.
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) adhere to the highest quality of standards, which help ensure the best care for your pet.
Knowles Animal Clinics Proudly provide veterinary services for the City of Miami Canine Units, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Miami Dade Corrections / Narcotics, and Miami Dade's Canine Units.
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