Cranial Cruciate Ligament Repairs

​Torn cruciate ligaments are one of the most common orthopedic diseases in our companion animals.  Certain breeds are pre-disposed to this injury such as Labs, Pitbulls, and Rottweilers. Once diagnosed through physical examination and x-rays, our Veterinarians can discuss the different forms of treatment available. Surgical intervention is almost always the ideal way to treat this debilitating disease. 

​There are several surgical procedures available to correct patellar disease.
​Coombs Veterinary Hospital is now offering 3 of these procedures:
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Extracapsular Repair:
​​a.k.a. the "Tight Rope" method

This procedure involves removal of any damaged tissue in the stifle joint including arthritic bone spurs. A heavy gauge suture is then passed around the fabella, and through a hole drilled in the front of the tibia, which tightens the joint to prevent the drawer motion. 

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​TTA:
Tibial Tuberosity Advancement

In this procedure, stability is created by altering the angle of the patellar ligament. This is achieved by cutting and repositioning the tibial crest where the patellar ligament attaches, then implanting stainless steel hardware and bone grafts to stabilize the new angle. 
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TPLO:
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy

This involves reduction of the tibial plateau angle by cutting and rotating the proximal tibia to eliminate dynamic joint instability (cranial tibial thrust). The desired tibial plateau angle is maintained using a stainless-steel bone plate. Damaged meniscal cartilage is also removed.

There are many factors that influence which surgery is the right choice for your animal including age, activity level, breed/size, and finances. Please discuss these surgical options with your veterinarian. 

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​​If you are a Primary Care Veterinarian with a case that would benefit from any of these diagnostics/treatments, please fill out our online

Referral Form 


If you are a client interested in any of the above services for your pet,
please have your veterinarian send us a referral, or call us to book a consult today.