Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury is a common orthopedic problem that affects pets, particularly dogs. Similar to the anterior cruciate ligament in humans, the CCL is a critical component of your pet’s knee. If this structure is damaged, it can cause instability, pain, and decreased mobility. Our Peak Pet Urgent Care team provides information about what pet owners need to know about CCL disease.
Why is my pet’s cranial cruciate ligament important?
The knee is a complex joint composed of the femoral bone above, the tibial bone below, the kneecap (i.e., patella) at the front, and a small bean-like bone (i.e., fabella) at the back. Cushioning cartilage (menisci) sits between the femur and tibia to prevent friction, and the joint is held together by numerous ligaments that help the knee to bend properly. Two of these ligaments are the cranial and caudal cruciate ligaments, which connect on the femur, cross inside the knee joint, and attach on the opposite side of the tibia. The CCL’s main function is to prevent the tibia from moving forward in relation to the femur.
What causes a pet’s cranial cruciate ligament injury?
A CCL injury can be caused by trauma to the knee, but in most cases, the condition is a slow, degenerative process caused by many contributing factors, such as aging of the ligament, obesity, genetics, and poor conformation. The majority of pets who have CCL injury in one knee will develop a problem in the other knee.
Is cranial cruciate ligament disease common in pets?
CCL disease is the most common cause of hind-limb lameness in dogs and can also occur in cats. All pets are susceptible to CCL injury, but certain breeds, such as rottweilers, Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, and Labrador retrievers, are at higher risk.
What are cranial cruciate ligament disease signs in pets?
If your pet experiences a traumatic acute CCL injury, they may vocalize and hold up a hind limb during an active play session, but in other cases, signs may be more subtle and may include:
- Decreased interest in play or activity
- Slowing down on walks
- Difficulty sitting or rising from a sitting position
- Trouble jumping on or off elevated surfaces
- Trouble navigating stairs
- Stiffness, especially after resting
- Decreased muscle mass over the affected limb
- Swelling on the inside of the shin bone
Once the CCL fully ruptures, your pet may refuse to put weight on the limb, and movement of the unstable joint will cause inflammation, pain, and tissue damage, eventually leading to arthritis.
How is cranial cruciate ligament disease diagnosed in pets?
CCL disease is diagnosed by observing your pet’s gait, using specific palpation techniques, and taking X-rays. In some cases, surgery may be required to see the joint to diagnose CCL disease.
How is cranial cruciate ligament disease treated in pets?
CCL disease typically requires surgery to adequately stabilize the joint. Surgical techniques include:
- Extracapsular repair — This technique involves using sutures to mimic the CCL’s function, stabilizing the joint until scar tissue can form around the knee.
- Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) — A TPLO procedure changes the knee joint’s dynamics, providing stability without relying on the CCL.
- Tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) — A TTA procedure changes the knee joint’s alignment to stabilize the joint.
Postoperatively, physical therapy enhances recovery and helps restore joint function. Weight management is also critical to reduce stress on the affected joint.
How is cranial cruciate ligament disease prevented in pets?
While some risk factors for CCL disease can’t be controlled, you can take steps to reduce your pet’s likelihood of injury, such as:
- Maintaining a healthy weight — Calculate your pet’s necessary daily caloric intake and accurately measure their meal portions to keep them at a healthy weight and reduce stress on their joints.
- Providing regular exercise — Ensure your four-legged friend has regular, moderate exercise to keep them fit without overstraining their joints.
- Controlling play — Avoid activities that include sudden stops, jumps, and sharp turns, especially for breeds predisposed to CCL disease.
If your pet has a painful hind limb, contact our Peak Pet Urgent Care team so we can identify the problem and make a plan to help alleviate their discomfort and determine the best next steps.
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