Home

Patellar Ligament Repaired During Cruciate Surgery

Reader Question
After assessing my dog leg problem, The vet told me that she has a partial tear in her ACL, and was recommended surgery. However, after the surgery, the vet informed me that all went well till they accidentally cut her patellar ligament and had to stitch it up.

My question is ; would she heal well enough to be a normal dog due to the restitching of the patellar ligament? Is she going to suffer from this in the short or long run? Is her Range of Motion be affected? My dog is 21 month old, a young Australian Shepherd.

Can you please help me with some knowledge.

thank you,

sigi


Answer from Our Team

The patellar ligament (the strong band running from the kneecap to the shin bone) is close to where cruciate surgery is performed, and it can be repaired. Many dogs heal well after repair, though recovery is often slower and the leg may need extra protection, such as a longer rest period or a splint.

Ask the surgeon how the ligament was repaired, what the rehabilitation plan is, and what signs to watch for, such as the kneecap sitting higher than normal or difficulty straightening the knee. A structured rehab program will help her regain range of motion. Her young age is in her favor.

See torn ACL in dogs.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.

Click here to post comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Knee.