Cranial Cruciate Rupture

Inside the knee, ligaments stabilize the joint during movement. Sudden twisting motions of the knee create excess stress on these ligaments, resulting in tears. In people, this is a common football injury (Anterior Cruciate Ligament, ACL, tear). Overweight patients and certain breeds (e.g.: Labrador Retrievers) are at increased risk of cruciate ligament injury. Pets with cruciate ligament injury have a sudden onset of lameness of the affected back leg. Initially, they may hold the leg up and not bear weight on it. Over time, they will begin to bear partial weight on the limb. Diagnosis of cruciate ligament injury is made based on history and physical examination. Detection of a “drawer sign” and confirmatory knee x-rays make the final diagnosis. For most dogs, the treatment of choice is surgical repair of the joint. Your veterinarian will discuss the multiple surgical options available to repair your pet’s injured knee and restore function. Recovery from the surgery requires a combination of physical therapy, nutritional supplements to minimize inflammation (e.g.: glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids), and a weight loss program.