Anterior Cruciate Surgery

This surgery is to restabilize the knee joint following rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament. This involves opening the knee joint to remove the remaining damaged ligament and placing a heavy nylon suture outside of the joint. This suture is secure with metal crimps and over time will eventually break. This is just a temporary measure to allow the body to heal the knee and allow a normal, gradual return to function. While the surgery will delay the onset of arthritis, it will not stop it all together. Please bear in mind that obesity greatly complicates the healing and recovery process and do not feed excessive amounts of food. Let us know if your pet is gaining weight over the recovery process, as this can hinder or even break the recovery. Unfortunately, statistics have shown us that 30-40% of dogs who tear one cruciate ligament will rupture their opposite ligament within 1 year of the first surgery, but if you suspect your pet has ruptured one, notify us immediately. If not corrected, it poses a much bigger threat.

Have a pet that had this surgery done?

1. Make sure to examine the incision at least twice a day. Look for swelling, bleeding or other discharge from the surgery site. If you notice any of those things, contact us as soon as possible.

2. Remember to return in 7-10 days for staple/suture removal. This marks a stage of recovery with your pet and during that visit your doctor will discuss passive range of motion therapy for the knee. Typically, this involves flexing and extending the knee 10 times at two separate sessions each day. Be careful with your pet, as this will be painful for them but it is important for their recovery.

3. When your pet was discharged, they had a Fentanyl patch to help manage their pain. This patch needs to stay on until five days after the surgery. At this time, the oral pain medication can be given.

4. Any antibiotics prescribed are to decrease the potential for infection and are important for the healthy of your pet. Be sure to give them as directed.

5. Restrict your pet to short leash walks only for the next six weeks.

6. Limping and holding up the surgically corrected leg is normal for 2-3 weeks. A gradual increase in the amount of weight carried by the leg is expected at that time. Full return to use can be as long as 3-5 months.

Please contact us with any questions or concerns. If your pet had this surgery done and is not gradually improving, contact us as soon as possible.