Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

THE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM • 391
Rupture of the medial or lateral collateral ligament usually is caused by a
severe blow to the side of the joint or a twisting motion, especially at speed.
The affected ligament may be stretched, partially torn, or completely severed.
Diagnosis is made by manipulating the joint and looking for a degree of looseness.
Severe blows to the stifle may also cause joint fractures. Dogs may need
to be anesthetized for a thorough evaluation of the stifle.
Injuries to the meniscus are associated with injuries to the cruciates. If a
cruciate injury goes untreated, secondary damage to the meniscus occurs in
the weeks and months that follow. The end result is degenerative arthritis and
permanent lameness. Isolated meniscus injuries are rare in dogs.
Treatment: The treatment of choice for ruptured cruciate ligaments is surgical
repair. If this is not done, the joint becomes unstable and is subject to
further damage. Following surgical repair, physical therapy and restricted
exercise (as described for Luxation, page 388) are important for successful
recovery. The complete rehabilitation program may take months for dogs to
return to near full athletic performance levels.
Collateral ligaments that have been stretched but not torn usually heal satisfactorily
with rest and restricted activity.
Meniscal injuries respond well to surgical removal of the damaged part of
the cartilage.