Orthopedic Surgery in Pets: Treating ACL Tears, Joint Issues & More

If your dog or cat suddenly starts limping, favoring a leg, or struggling to jump onto the sofa, it can be scary. Just as people can, pets can injure their bones, ligaments, and joints. When these injuries are serious, such as a torn knee ligament or a broken bone, your veterinarian may recommend orthopedic surgery.

Orthopedic surgery is the repair of problems with bones, joints, and tendons. The goal is always the same: to get your beloved pet moving comfortably again without pain. The type of surgery your pet needs depends entirely on the specific problem, their size, and how active they are.

Common Reasons Pets Need Bone Surgery

The most common reason large, active dogs need orthopedic surgery is an ACL (Cruciate Ligament) tear. The ACL is a crucial band in the knee that helps keep the joint stable. When it tears, the knee becomes unstable, causing pain and a limp.

Fixing an ACL tear often involves specific procedures that alter how the knee works, so the torn ligament is no longer necessary for stability. Here are a few ways surgeons fix this common issue:

• TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy): This is often done for larger, very active dogs. The surgeon slightly changes the angle of a bone in the lower leg. This small change makes the knee stable when your dog walks, even without a healthy ACL. It has a high success rate.

• TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement): Similar to TPLO, this surgery alters the position of the tibia in the knee to improve stability. It is another strong option for bigger breeds.

• Lateral Suture Technique: This technique uses strong nylon material to replace the function of the torn ACL. It works well for smaller pets or less active pets, and it is usually the least costly option.

Is Your Pet in Pain? Watch for Clues

If your pet has an orthopedic problem, they might not cry out, but they will give you clear signals that they are uncomfortable.

Look for signs such as limping, reluctance to use a leg, or stiffness, especially after resting. The pet might also have trouble standing up or getting into a comfortable position, or a decrease in their normal play or activity level.

If you hear clicking or popping when they move a joint, or if you observe swelling around a joint, you need to get it checked.

What to Expect on Surgery Day

On the morning your pet is scheduled for surgery, the veterinary team will guide you through a few essential steps. You need to feel comfortable with the plan.

• Going Over the Details

The day will begin with one last conversation to review everything that needs to be done. Your vet will do a quick physical exam and review the X-rays one more time.

• The Operation Itself

Your pet will get medication to help them sleep soundly and without pain throughout the procedure. The surgeon then carefully performs the repair, whether they are setting a broken bone or stabilizing a wobbly joint.

• Getting Ready to Go Home

After the repair is complete, your pet is carefully monitored as they wake from anesthesia. Following your vet’s instructions during the recovery period is key to a successful outcome.

For more on orthopedic surgery in pets, visit Animal Hospital of Salinas. Our office is in Salinas, California. Call (831) 346-0600 to book an appointment today.

https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu/vth/services/orthopedic-medicine/canine-cruciate-ligament-injury/

https://www.westlakeanimalhospital.net/services/surgical-procedures/orthopedic-surgery