Surgical method of treatment of rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in dogs

This article describes the results of the search for the most optimal surgical method for treating rupture of the anterior (cranial) cruciate ligament in small breed dogs using the example of treating Yorkshire Terriers. The main causes of rupture of the anterior (cranial) cruciate ligament in dogs are indicated, including congenital knock-knee and pathologies of the pelvic limb. The factors predisposing to rupture of the anterior (cranial) cruciate ligament are described: the slope of the tibia, as well as stenosis of the intercondylar groove of the femur. Much attention is focused on the predisposition to the disease of certain dog breeds such as West Highland White Terriers, Yorkshire Terriers and Rottweilers. It is noted that the first stage of diagnosing rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in dogs is orthopedic tests, such as the cranial tension test ("drawer") and the Henderson compression test. The main clinical symptoms of an ACL rupture are noted: pain in the knee joint when moving, lameness of the supporting limb, swelling of the knee joint and an increase in local temperature. The article indicates possible complications during surgical treatment of anterior (cranial) cruciate ligament rupture. The main stages of preparation and surgical treatment using the fabello-tibial suture knee joint stabilization technique are described. Emphasis is placed on the need to use braided lavsan tape of various sizes instead of nylon thread, since it is not subject to rupture and is resistant to abrasion in the area of drilled holes. Providing animals with rest, including keeping them in cages, to limit their movement are also indicated as important components of postoperative care. A conclusion is made about the effectiveness of the surgical method of treating anterior (cranial) cruciate ligament rupture with the imposition of a fabello-tibial suture in small breed dogs.