Cruciate Ligament Disease

Also called: CCL disease, cranial cruciate ligament rupture, CrCLR, cruciate disease, canine 'ACL' tear

• Dogs
• Bones & joints
• Adult

Rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament in the stifle (knee) — most often from gradual ligament degeneration, sometimes acute injury — causing joint instability, pain, and lameness. It is the leading cause of hindlimb lameness in dogs. Arthritis progresses over time regardless of treatment, and the meniscus is commonly injured too.

Signs to look for

• Hindlimb lameness, sudden or gradual
• Sitting with one leg out to the side
• Difficulty rising or jumping
• Stiffness after rest
• Knee-joint swelling

How a vet diagnoses it

Orthopaedic examination (tests for joint instability such as cranial drawer and tibial thrust), gait observation, and X-rays that show joint fluid and arthritis.

Treatment

Surgery is usually recommended, especially in larger or active dogs — osteotomy techniques such as TPLO or TTA are the current mainstay, with extracapsular repair used mainly in smaller dogs. Conservative management suits some cases. Most dogs regain good to excellent function after surgery.

Monitoring at home

Rehabilitation and weight control after treatment; arthritis develops over time, so long-term joint care matters. The other knee is at increased risk of rupturing too.

Who tends to get it

Predisposed breeds include Labrador Retriever, Rottweiler, Newfoundland, Mastiff, Boxer, and Bulldog. Neutered, larger, and overweight dogs are at higher risk.

Sources

• American College of Veterinary Surgeons — Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease
• Merck Veterinary Manual — Joint Trauma in Dogs and Cats