Retrospective study ofthe resolution of the cranial cruciate ligament rupture by tibial tuberosity advancement

Abstract

Objective: Investigate the clinical results, evolution of the patients and possible complications that have arisen after the tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA). Study design: Retrospective case. Animals: Dogs (n= 29) with cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) deficiency treated with TTA. Methods: Medical records of TTAs performed between 2015 to 2018. One of the technique most frequently used in veterinary to resolve cranial cruciate rupture in dog is tibial transposition advancement. This was introduced in 2002 in veterinary medicine by Montavon, Damur and Tepic[1] . In this the diagnosis of a ruptured CrCL was determined on the basis of physical examination findings, including hind limb lameness with signs of pain localized to the stifle joint, palpation of medial buttress and signs of pain on stifle joint hyperextension, positive cranial drawer or tibial thrust findings, and radiographic evidence. The technique was performed according protocol without any modification that affects the results after the surgery and the dogs were not subjected to any type of exclusion. In-hospital re evaluation of limb function and time to radiographic healing were reviewed. Further follow-up was obtained by telephone interview of owners. Result: The numbers of dogs submitted in this study were a total of 29 (median age, 7 years; median body weight, 32,5 kg). A total of 40 TTA was performed in 4 years and 11 dogs had had TTAs performed on both stifle joints. The breeds more represent were, mixed (28%), Labrador retrievers (21%) and Dogo Canario (14%). Conclusion: Clinical outcome and owner evaluations in this case series indicate favourable results can be expected when CrCL deficient stifles are treated with TTA.