Advanced Surgical Solutions for Cruciate Tears

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Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease (CrCLD)

CrCLD is one of the most common orthopedic conditions affecting dogs, and occasionally cats. It involves the gradual weakening or rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament, which is a key stabilizer in the knee joint (called the stifle in animals). This ligament is similar to the ACL in humans and prevents the shinbone (tibia) from sliding forward relative to the thighbone (femur).

CrCLD Causes

Rather than being caused by a sudden injury, CrCLD typically results from chronic degeneration of the ligament over time. Factors like age, breed, genetics, obesity, and poor physical condition can all contribute to its development.

Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO)

TPLO is one of the most widely used techniques, especially for large or active dogs. It involves cutting and rotating the tibial plateau to change the biomechanics of the knee, eliminating the need for the cranial cruciate ligament during weight-bearing. Dr. Wardlaw, a board-certified surgeon, has performed over 10,000 of these procedures — and counting — bringing unmatched experience to every case.

Treatment for CrCL disease

When treating cranial cruciate ligament disease (CrCLD) in dogs and cats, three common surgical options are TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy), CBLO (CORA-Based Leveling Osteotomy), and lateral suture stabilization. Each has its own advantages depending on the pet’s size, age, activity level, and the surgeon’s preference.

CBLO is a newer technique that also alters the tibial angle but uses a different approach based on the bone’s natural axis (CORA). It’s often chosen for younger dogs or those with steep tibial slopes.

This method uses a strong suture placed outside the joint to mimic the function of the torn ligament. It’s typically used in smaller or less active dogs.

CBLO is a newer technique that also alters the tibial angle but uses a different approach based on the bone’s natural axis (CORA). It’s often chosen for younger dogs or those with steep tibial slopes.

This method uses a strong suture placed outside the joint to mimic the function of the torn ligament. It’s typically used in smaller or less active dogs.