Choosing the Right Surgeon for your Dog’s Cruciate Ligament Rupture Surgery

If your dog has been diagnosed with a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture, choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for their recovery. As a veterinary surgeon with a special interest in surgery, I want to guide you through key factors to consider when selecting the best professional for your pet’s needs.  

Understanding the Importance of a Skilled Surgeon

The CCL (equivalent to the ACL in humans) is crucial for stabilizing your dog’s knee. When it ruptures, it causes pain, limping, and long-term joint damage if left untreated. Surgical intervention is the most effective treatment. However, the success of the surgery depends heavily on the skill and experience of the surgeon performing it.

 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Surgeon

1. Qualifications - look for a veterinarian who is:

   •   A Special InterestSurgeon or Specialist Surgeon (MANZCVSc or FANZCVSc (Surgery) or equivalentOverseas qualification).

   •   Experienced specifically in orthopedic surgeries, particularly TPLO.  

2. Experience & Case Volume

   •   Ask how many TPLO surgeries the surgeon performs annually. A higher case volume often translates to greater expertise.

3. Surgical Facility & Equipment

   •   A high-quality veterinary hospital should have advanced imaging (X-rays or CT), sterile surgical suites, and modern orthopedic instruments.

   •   Postoperative pain management, infection control, and rehabilitation services should also be available.

4. Success Rates & Complication Management

   •   Ask about their success rates and how they handle potential complications like infections, implant failure, or meniscal injuries.

   •   A reputable surgeon will be transparent about risks and explain how they mitigate them.

5. Client Reviews & Referrals

   •   Seek referrals from your primary vet, other pet owners, or online reviews.

   •   Look for feedback fromGoogle or pet owner pages on surgical outcomes, post-op care, and overall client experience with that surgeon.

6. Communication & Postoperative Care

   •   A good surgeon should clearly explain why they recommend a particular procedure and provide a structured postoperative recovery plan.

   •   Ask about rehabilitation options like physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and pain management toensure optimal recovery.

7. Cost & Insurance Coverage - surgical costs vary depending on the procedure and location. TPLO surgeries are generally more expensive than extracapsular repairs. Makesure you compare total cost rather than advertised cost. For example are the following included:

   •   Pre-op blood profiles

   •   Pre-op x-rays

   •   Post-op hospitalisation

   •   Long lasting combination post-op pain relief

   •   Post-op follow up visits and follow up x-rays included

Final Thoughts

Check if your pet insurance covers the procedure and ask for a detailed cost estimate upfront. While price is a factor, the long-term health and comfort of your dog should be the priority. A skilled, experienced surgeon may cost more upfront but they also provide better outcomes, fewer complications and lower long term costs. Cheaper isn’t always better – BETTER IS BETTER!

Choosing the right surgeon for your dog’s cruciate ligament rupture can make all the difference in their recovery and long-term joint health. Prioritize expertise, experience, and comprehensive post-op care when making your decision.

If your dog has been diagnosed with a CCL tear and you need help finding a skilled surgeon, consult your primary veterinarian or look for an experience cruciate surgeon in your area. Your dog deserves the best care, and the right surgeon can ensure they return to an active, pain-free life.