TTA-Rapid for treating the canine cruciate deficient stifle: Medium to long-term outcome and analysis of risk factors.

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate medium to long-term outcomes following treatment of lameness associated with cranial cruciate ligament insufficiency using the tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA)-Rapid technique and to investigate risk factors associated with outcome, including tibial plateau angle (TPA).

METHODS

Patient records for cases treated over an 80-month period were examined retrospectively. An owner postal questionnaire using a clinical metrology instrument (Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs) evaluated the outcome at least 6 months after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 149 procedures were carried out in 120 dogs. Questionnaires were received for 64 dogs (53.3%), with a median follow-up time of 37.5 months. Outcome was judged to be satisfactory, based on frequency of lameness, in 63 (98.4%), while satisfactory outcomes were achieved in 61 (95.3%) based on severity of lameness and in 50 (78.1%) based on mobility score. Statistical analysis showed that age, bodyweight, TPA, meniscal injury and concurrent patellar surgery did not influence outcome, but time to follow-up positively correlated with mobility score.

LIMITATIONS: This study involved one surgeon in one centre with outcome data based on the completion of an owner questionnaire, although this used a validated clinical metrology instrument.

CONCLUSION

TTA-Rapid offers a treatment option for cranial cruciate-deficient stifles with a good medium to long-term outcome, and no risk factors were identified to suggest any limitations to its use.