General Information:
A ligament consists of tough, fibrous tissue connecting 2 bones. In the knee, rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament allows the femur (thigh bone) to slide back and forth over the tibia (shin bone).
The rupture first causes pain, then abnormal wear and tear lead to arthritis. This sequence of events occurs most frequently in overweight, middle-aged to old dogs.
Depending on the severity of the rupture, treatment may consist of limited exercise and rest, or surgical repair of the torn ligament.
Treatment Information:
1. Exercise:
Restrict your pet's activity for as long as your
veterinarian recommends. Do not let your pet run unrestrained.
On-leash walking is the only activity permitted outside the home.
Prevent jumping whenever possible. Begin increasing exercise gradually
the period of restriction.
2. Diet:
Ordinarily no special diet is required for healing.
If your pet is overweight, weight reduction can speed recovery
and possibly prevent further injury. Your vet will discuss weight
control with you if necessary.
3. Care of the splint/bandage:
Certain surgical corrections require use of a splint
or bandage for 1-6 weeks after surgery. If your pet has a splint
or bandage, extra care is needed to protect it. Do not let the
apparatus become wet. In damp weather, place plastic bag over
it when you walk your pet. Do not allow unrestrained exercise.
Your vet will assist you in determining how long your pet needs
to remain bandaged.
4. Incision:
Check the incision daily and report any abnormalities
to your veterinarian's office. Your pet will be evaluated for
suture removal in 10 days.
5. Medication:
If your pet is to have surgery for repairing the
torn ligament, s/he should be taken off of any cortisone (itching
medication) until further recommended. This medication may slow
or impair the healing process of the surgical site.
We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to e-mail us.
David E. Hammett, DVM
and the Staff of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic,
PC
