International Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health

International Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health ISSN 2756-3871 Vol. 14(9), September, 2023. © International Scholars Journals

Opinion

Accepted 21 July, 2023

Kehinde Olusegun, Olumide Temitope and Ijeoma Ugochukwu

Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology - University of Jos, Jos.

 
Abstract:
This opinion article aims to provide a comprehensive comparative analysis of surgical techniques used for canine cruciate ligament repair. Cruciate ligament injuries are common in dogs and can lead to significant lameness and joint instability. Several surgical techniques have been developed to address this issue, including extracapsular stabilization, tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO), and tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA). This article discusses the advantages, disadvantages, and outcomes associated with each technique, highlighting the importance of considering individual patient factors when selecting the most appropriate surgical approach.

Keywords: Canine cruciate ligament repair, extracapsular stabilization, TPLO, TTA, surgical techniques.

Introduction:
Canine cruciate ligament injuries are a prevalent orthopedic problem in veterinary medicine. The rupture or partial tear of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) can result in lameness, joint instability, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgical intervention is often necessary to restore stability and function to the affected joint. Over the years, various surgical techniques have been developed to address this issue. This article aims to compare and evaluate the effectiveness of three commonly used techniques: extracapsular stabilization, TPLO, and TTA.

Discussion:
1. Extracapsular Stabilization:
Extracapsular stabilization is a widely employed technique for canine cruciate ligament repair. It involves placing a suture material outside the joint capsule to provide stability. This technique is relatively simple and cost-effective compared to other methods. However, it may not be suitable for large or active dogs due to potential suture failure or implant loosening. Additionally, long-term outcomes may be less favorable compared to more advanced techniques.

2. Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO):
TPLO is a surgical technique that involves altering the biomechanics of the stifle joint to compensate for the loss of cruciate ligament function. It aims to reduce cranial tibial thrust and stabilize the joint. TPLO has gained popularity due to its ability to provide excellent long-term outcomes and improved joint stability. However, it requires specialized equipment, advanced surgical skills, and a longer recovery period. The cost of TPLO surgery is also higher compared to extracapsular stabilization.

3. Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA):
TTA is another surgical technique used for canine cruciate ligament repair. It involves advancing the tibial tuberosity to change the angle of the patellar tendon, thereby reducing cranial tibial thrust. TTA offers advantages such as rapid recovery, reduced postoperative complications, and good long-term outcomes. However, it also requires specialized equipment and expertise.

Comparative Analysis:
When comparing these three surgical techniques, several factors should be considered, including patient size, activity level, concurrent orthopedic conditions, surgeon experience, and cost. Extracapsular stabilization may be suitable for smaller dogs with lower activity levels and limited financial resources. TPLO and TTA are more appropriate for larger or highly active dogs due to their ability to provide better joint stability. TPLO is generally preferred for dogs with steep tibial plateau angles, while TTA may be more suitable for dogs with shallow tibial plateau angles.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the choice of surgical technique for canine cruciate ligament repair should be based on a thorough evaluation of individual patient factors. Extracapsular stabilization, TPLO, and TTA all have their advantages and disadvantages. While extracapsular stabilization is a simpler and more cost-effective option, TPLO and TTA offer superior long-term outcomes and improved joint stability. Consulting with a veterinary orthopedic specialist is crucial in determining the most appropriate surgical approach for each case.