Canine Veterinary TPLO, Cranial Cruciate Ligament / ACL Surgery
The Cranial Cruciate Ligament
The cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL), also known as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in humans, is a vital structure that stabilises the stifle (knee) joint in dogs. It connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). It is essential for joint stability as it functions to prevent over-rotation of the stifle, and the tibia from sliding forwards relative to the femur during weight bearing.
What is cranial cruciate ligament disease?
CrCL disease is the most common cause of hind limb lameness in dogs. It is caused by a combination of factors i.e. age-related degeneration, excess body weight, skeletal conformation and breed predisposition. Chronic progressive degeneration and weakening of the ligament occurs over months and years, eventually leading to a partial or complete rupture. While CrCL disease often affects medium to large breed dogs, it can occur in dogs of any size and breed.
Signs & Symptoms
Stifle pain Lameness (ranging from mild to non weight bearing) Swelling of the stifle joint
Is surgery required and why?
Yes, surgery is recomemended to stabilise the stifle joint. Without surgical intervention, ongoing instability leads to the development and progression of osteoarthritis, resulting in long-term pain. An unstable joint also increases the risk of meniscal (cartilage) injury, which can causes significant acute lameness and discomfort.
What does surgery involve?
If CrCL instability is suspected, the following procedures are carried out under a single general anaesthetic: Radiographs (X-rays) of the stifle Stifle Arthroscopy – a minimally invasive procedure used to confirm the diagnosis and treat any concurrent meniscal injury. Arthroscopy differs from arthrotomy (open joint surgery) in that it requires specialised training and equipment to perform, and results in less pain and faster recovery TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) surgery – this surgical procedure stabilises the joint by altering the biomechanics of the stifle. It involves a precise cut of the tibia and fixation using plate and screws
What is the recovery process?
After surgery, your pet will need to rest to allow for proper healing. Running, jumping and usage of the stairs should be avoided for 8 weeks following surgery. Gradual, controlled weight bearing and walking on the operated leg is encouraged during this period to promote healing. Left untreated, each time the kneecap dislocates, it rubs against the joint, straining soft tissues and eroding cartilage, which leads to arthritis and persistent pain over time. For this reason, while not urgent, surgical correction is recommended as early as possible to prevent long-term damage.
Why Choose Westside for Surgical Treatment?
Dr Goh has extensive experience in the surgical management of cranial cruciate ligament disease, having surgically treated 80-100 cases annually over the past seven years in Australia. Each case involved a comprehensive stifle arthroscopy - a specialised skill requiring training and practice - followed by surgical stabilisation with a TPLO procedure. Dr Goh consistently achieves excellent outcomes, with patients returning to normal activity levels following recovery. At Westside, we are dedicated to providing the highest standards of specialist care. Pets are in expert hands, and owners are kept informed and supported—reinforcing the trust at the heart of the pet-owner-veterinarian relationship.