Double danger: torn cruciate ligament dogs both legs in focus
A torn cruciate ligament in dogs can be a challenge in just one leg - but what happens if both legs are affected? In this article, you will learn everything about cruciate ligament rupture in dogs on both legs, from the symptoms and diagnosis to treatment and prevention. We also answer frequently asked questions to help you best support your four-legged friend.
Dog cruciate ligament tear on both legs: The facts
Symptoms that indicate a torn cruciate ligament in both legs
A dog that suffers from cruciate ligament rupture in both legs often shows the following symptoms:
- Sudden lameness in one or both hind legs
- Swelling in the knee joint
- Pain when touching the affected joint
- Limited mobility and stiffness
- Sustained lifting of the affected leg while running
Diagnosis of cruciate ligament rupture in dogs
Clinical examination
The diagnosis of cruciate ligament rupture of both legs in dogs begins with a clinical examination by the veterinarian. The joint is palpated and checked for swelling, pain and restricted movement. As a rule, the so-called drawer test .
Imaging procedures
In some cases, imaging tests such as x-rays, CT or ultrasound are necessary to confirm the diagnosis and identify possible associated injuries.
Treatment of cruciate ligament tears in dogs on both legs
Conservative treatment of cruciate ligament rupture in dogs on both legs
Mild cases of cruciate ligament rupture in dogs on both legs can be treated conservatively. Painkillers, physiotherapy and weight loss are used here. The dog should also only be kept on a leash and prevented from jumping or jerky movements.
Surgical treatment of cruciate ligament rupture dogs both legs
More severe cases of cruciate ligament rupture in dogs on both legs or those in which conservative therapy does not lead to the desired result require surgical treatment. Depending on the severity and individual circumstances, various methods can be considered, such as:
- Extracapsular stabilization
- Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO)
- Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA)
- Petlig method
In cases of bilateral cruciate ligament tears, especially in older dogs (degenerative), we prefer the Petlig method we developed ourselves. Below we explain why:
The innovative Petlig Method®: Advanced treatment of cruciate ligament tears in dogs
Introduction to the Petlig Method® specifically for the treatment of torn cruciate ligaments in dogs on both legs
The Petlig Method® is a further development of the Vetlig/Zlig method and represents a revolutionary treatment option for cruciate ligament tears in dogs and cats. It offers a variety of advantages over conventional procedures such as the TTA or TPLO method. Below we will explain the modifications and benefits of the Petlig Method® in detail.
The modifications of the Petlig Method®
The Petlig Method® is based on the following essential modifications:
- Use of a more resilient, artificial cruciate ligament from the Novalig® brand: This ligament is made from medical fibers that are also used in human medicine. Novalig® tapes are made in France and have proven themselves in 10 different applications.
- Braided structure of the Novalig® band: This structure promotes tissue growth and maximizes mechanical resistance. It is proven to be better than free fibers.
- Use of specially developed instruments: Novetech, the manufacturer of the Novalig® band, supplies a complete instrumentation specifically for dogs and cats, including a targeting device that enables consistently reproducible drilling of the necessary tunnel.
Advantages of the Petlig Method® compared to conventional methods
The Petlig Method® offers a number of advantages over the methods mentioned as well as the TTA or TPLO method:
Reduced use of screws
By using artificial straps with so-called toggles, the use of screws is reduced to a minimum. This increases the likelihood of success for patients' chances of recovery. With 8000 Nm, the Novalig® belts are superior to competing providers.
Inside-out method
The operation uses the so-called inside-out method. This offers an additional advantage in older animals with bilateral cruciate ligament tears.
Simultaneous operation for cruciate ligament rupture of both legs in dog
With a well-rehearsed team, both legs are operated on at the same time, which means that the animal only has the risk of anesthesia once and the duration of the operation corresponds to that of a simple cruciate ligament operation. In contrast, the TPLO method would have to be carried out in two operations, with 8 weeks of healing time . This means double the risk of anesthesia, worse chances of recovery for the operated leg because it cannot bear full weight and receives no support from the leg that has not yet been operated on.
Application examples of Novalig® tapes
In addition to the Petlig Method®, the Novalig® bands are also used for lateral suture reins. Another example of use is the treatment of lameness of the pelvic limbs in which the dog is striding (a so-called partial plantigrady in connection with crab-claw posture).
Is the Petlig method suitable for every dog?
If we have a young dog with a bilateral cruciate ligament tear, we generally advise against an artificial cruciate ligament replacement, such as the Petlig method. Why? Because then there is an anatomical cause in the breeding or breed that cannot be permanently solved by an artificial cruciate ligament. However, in the case of so-called degenerative cruciate ligament tears, i.e. in older dogs, the gentle Petlig procedure is ideal and quickly offers a high quality of life again.
How much experience do you have with artificial cruciate ligament replacements in dogs?
With over 200 artificial cruciate ligaments operated on, we are one of the leading veterinarians in Germany who have dealt with this innovative ligament replacement. We now know very well when to recommend this method and when to use other surgical techniques such as TPLO.
Conclusion
The Petlig Method® represents a significant advance in the treatment of cruciate ligament tears in dogs and cats. By using more resilient artificial ligaments and specially developed instruments, the method offers many advantages over conventional procedures such as the TTA or TPLO method. Especially in older animals with bilateral cruciate ligament tears, simultaneous surgery on both legs increases the likelihood of success and reduces the risk of anesthesia.