Understanding CrCL Tears in Dogs
Cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) insufficiency is the most common acquired orthopedic condition in dogs. It can look very different depending on its form and severity – including the presence of common, secondary meniscus cartilage tears.
In humans, ACL tears are typically a result of high energy, high impact and sport-related trauma. It’s important to know that the vast majority of CrCL “disease” in dogs stems from chronic degeneration and not a singular trauma.
Left unmanaged, CrCL insufficiencies can cause chronic joint pain. A partial CrCL rupture will generally progress to a full tear within weeks or months, and contrary to certain opinion, they do not heal. And because this condition is a degenerative disease in dogs, those that have ruptured their CrCL may have up to a 60-70 percent likelihood of tearing the ligament in the opposite hind limb. Long term complications include increased cartilage damage and chronic, progressive osteoarthritis.
Surgical techniques should involve complete evaluation of the joint, debridement of damaged or diseased CrCL tissue and partial meniscectomy/release as required, either by way of arthroscopy or, less preferably, arthrotomy for comprehensive surgical management of CrCL disease.
ACL is the familar term in humans. In dogs it’s called the CrCL (Cranial Cruciate Ligament).
CrCL Tear
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We’ll help you understand exactly what is going on with your pet. If you’d like to do your own research, read on. Learn about your dog’s anatomy and how we identify exactly what is wrong and all options for treatment.
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