Cruciate Surgery

A dog with a torn anterior cruciate ligament is prepared for surgery after induction of anesthesia.  Kris Young, RVT begins by shaving all the hair away from the surgery site. 

The joint is examined and the broken ends of the ligament are removed.  In this case a small cartilage called a meniscus was also damaged requiring removal. 

After the joint is closed an artificial ligament is placed to reestablish the knee.  A special instrument is used to tighten the prosthetic ligament. 

4-During recovery, a bandage is applied to the leg to prevent swelling and reduce pain.  The prognosis for near full recovery is good.