Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease (CCL)
In animals the knee is known as the stifle. The stifle consists of two long bones called the Femur and Tibia. The knee cap or Patella sits within the patellar ligament and is attached to the tibia by the patellar tendon. The area where the patellar tendon is attached is called the Tibial Tuberosity. The top of the tibia is called the Tibial Plateau. Between the two bones there is a cushion called the Meniscus.
The TTA involves an osteotomy (or cut) in the non-weight bearing portion of the tibia, just behind the tibial tuberosity. The tibial tuberosity is advanced to acheive a perpendicular relationship between the tibial plateau slpe and the patellar tendon. This relationship results in a stable joint.
The advanced tibial tuberosity is secured using titanium implants. Healing takes about 12 weeks in most dogs. Most dogs, however, are walking on the limb the day after surgery. Implants do not require removal unless there are complications. Actual surgery pictures are available Here (warning graphic). If you have questions please call us at (810) 653-3988 or (810) 412-0336.
What To Expect After Surgery