Rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament in dogs. Part II. Diagnosis and management

Rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament is common in dogs. Part I of this two-part presentation discussed how osteoarthritis of the stifle precedes and contributes to rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament This part concludes that the aim in treatment is not to replace the ruptured ligament but to reduce pain and slow the progression of osteoarthritis within the joint. Tests of joint laxity and other means of diagnosis are described. Conservative management is often appropriate for small dogs. Regardless of the surgical technique used, 85% to 90% of dogs show clinical improvement, although fewer than 50% become sound on the affected leg. None of the surgical techniques stop the progression of osteoarthritis.