A dog's knees, or stifle joints, are prone to injury. These joints are used all the time, whether the dog is walking, running, playing or even sleeping. Through wear and tear or degenerative diseases or conditions, these joints become injured.
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Types
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Around 90 percent of canine knee injuries involve the ligaments that hold the hip, ankle, knee and kneecap together, according to the text "Minor Surgery." The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) and the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are more prone to wear and tear than the bones or kneecaps they support.
Considerations
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When there is damage to any part of the stifle joint, surgery is the only option to correct the problem and prevent it from getting worse. Delaying or denying a dog knee surgery causes the problem to degenerate.
Types
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There are approximately 20 different types of surgery to correct dog knee injuries. These surgeries vary in severity, level of invasion, pain and recovery time.
Expert Insight
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Your veterinarian is the only person who can diagnose a knee condition and prescribe the appropriate surgery. Speak to a licensed veterinary doctor to find out what type of surgery is needed.
Time Frame
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Recovery from canine knee surgery varies by injury and procedure. Recovery times can be as short as two weeks or as long as a year. Rest, limited activity and adequate follow-up care are necessary during this time.
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