Finding out your dog has a major ACL injury can be very overwhelming, not only emotionally, but possibly financially at some point. Understanding what to expect in the coming weeks and months will give you peace of mind. Below you will find some information that I have provided to help you understand what is going on with you, your dog and your family.
What is ACL?
The ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, is a ligament in a dog’s knee that connects the tibia and femur. The ACL stabilizes the knee to reduce stress on the knee joint when there is movement in the knee.
What is an ACL injury?
When the ACL or Anterior Cruciate Ligament ruptures or tears, the tibia and femur bone move to move freely against each other reducing the knee joint. If left untreated, this can cause permanent damage, including permanent leg paralysis.
How does an ACL injury occur in dogs?
There are endless ways a dog can injure their ACL. Something as simple as bending the wrong way or slipping on boards can cause an ACL injury. This type of injury can happen to dogs of all ages and at any fitness level. But it is said that age and weight can play a role in these injuries.
What are the signs and symptoms of an ACL injury?
Signs and symptoms of an ACL injury will vary from dog to dog. However, you may notice your dog limping or feeling a stretched leg. Likewise, the knee area of the leg may be swollen . Signs and symptoms can come and go depending on the level of activity your dog has had each day. .
How is an ACL Injury Treated?
An ACL injury can be treated in several ways. Depending on the extent of the injury, the vet will recommend the best course of action. If surgery is required, your veterinarian will most likely suggest one of the following surgeries, all of which are commonly performed at veterinary clinics across the country.
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Veterinary drill vet drill small holes in the leg holes in leg “fishing line” material through the holes, temporarily joining while the scar tissue is established. forms to establish a common forever.
- In Tibial Tuberosity Progression or TTA, the vet removes a piece of bone from the non-weight bearing area and moves it in the knee. That piece of bone will change the angle of the tibial plane, thus changing the way it is related to stabilizing the patellar tendon and the knee.
- In the region of Tibial Osteotomy or TPLO attrition, the bone of the canine leg is cut, rotated and secured in a new position with a metal plate. Doing this equalizes the level of the tibia which eliminates the need for the ACL or anterior cruciate ligament.
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What is the expected recovery time?
Each of these processes has its own recovery time. If surgery is indeed necessary, you can expect your dog to recover anywhere from 6-8 weeks.What is the cost of ACL surgery?
The total cost of treatment to repair an ACL tear will vary depending on your veterinarian and the procedure performed on your dog. You can expect the cost of each surgery to fall into the following cost ranges.- Conventional surgery ranges between $500 USD and $1000 USD.
- Tibial tuberosity advancement or TTA ranges between $2500 USD and $1000 USD.
- Tibial region friction osteotomy or TPLO ranges between $2500 USD and $1000 USD.
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It is important to remember that there are many costs involved in the diagnosis and treatment of an ACL injury. Your pet may require x-rays, medication, and more. Talk to your veterinarian about any expected treatment costs so you can make plans to cover the costs. Also, if the cost goes up, talk to your vet about a possible solution. Most veterinarians have some sort of solution as well. If not, refer to the vet who can offer a solution.
What is the complaint of a dog when dealing with an ACL injury?
Every case is different, so the outcome of each hand is different. That said, eHow.com reports that the recovery rate for all ACL surgeries in dogs is around 90%. Although it is very important that you follow the instructions given to you by your veterinarian. Something as simple as your walk the dog to allow a little distance in the risk of your entire dog surgery.Although an ACL injury can be overwhelming, the time spent, and the physical/emotional pain, is worth it. With a lot of patience and care, your dog will be back to normal in no time.
