Surgical and Non-Surgical ACL/CrCL Treatment Options For Your Dog or Cat
If you notice your dog or cat limping or holding up one of their hind legs, he or she might have an injury to their Cranial Cruciate Ligament – also known as the Anterior Cruciate Ligament or ACL. Although the common response by veterinary professionals is that your pet will need surgery, at the Brockton Animal Hospital we have had success in many cases with non-surgical treatment options.
About Anterior and Cranial Cruciate (ACL or CrCL) Ligament Injuries in Pets
Cranial Cruciate Ligament (aka Anterior Cruciate Ligament or ACL) injuries occur in pets more often than most people believe. Pet Health Insurance Companies report that ACL and CrCL injuries are the single highest cost covered condition reported by pet owners. Although unclear at this time, there have been several factors that been implicated in contributing to the injury of an ACL (CrCL) such as; breed predispositions, body condition, activity level, athletic prowess, nutrition, age and early spay or neuter.
For many years, ACL and CrCL Injuries have been believed to be caused solely by a catastrophic injury. We now know that a minor sprain, strain, or tear in the ligament can lead to inflammation, osteoarthritis, and further degeneration of the structure until total rupture occurs. Although the sudden onset of lameness seems to be from a single event, often there have been previous minor injuries that may go unnoticed.
At Brockton Animal Hospital, our veterinarians have a wealth of experience in both surgical and non-surgical treatment of CrCL/ACL injuries and disease.
Non-Surgical ACL/CrCL Treatment Options
Although in the past, surgical repair of ACL or Cranial Cruciate Ligament injury appeared the only option, we now may initially manage with less invasive non-surgical treatments. Although surgical treatment may still be necessary for a complete rupture of the ACL or CrCL, Brockton Animal Hospital has excellent success rates with the following non surgical treatment methods:
- Photobiomodulation (PBMT) previously known as LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy
- Nutraceuticals
- Diet
- Physical Therapy
- Restricted activity
- Weight Loss
Surgical ACL/CrCL Treatment
Although our veterinarians have had success in some cases combining multiple non-surgical treatments, there are times when surgery is the best choice.
At the Brockton Animal Hospital if a surgical approach is necessary, the extra capsular or lateral suture repair will be utilized.
The veterinarians at the Brockton Animal Hospital will thoroughly evaluate your pet to determine which treatment(s) are best for your dog or cat.
