Common Conditions That Require Surgery in Pets

Rupture of the CrCL is one of the most common reasons for hind limb lameness, pain, and subsequent knee arthritis. Since the development of this problem in dogs is much more complex than in humans, and they experience different degrees of rupture (partial or complete), the canine condition is referred to as ‘cranial cruciate ligament disease’ (CrCLD). While the clinical signs (symptoms) associated with CrCLD vary, the condition invariably causes rear limb dysfunction and pain.

Patellar luxation is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs, diagnosed in 7% of puppies.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis in dogs, affecting approximately a quarter of the population. It is a chronic joint disease characterized by loss of joint cartilage, thickening of the joint capsule and new bone formation around the joint (osteophytosis) and ultimately leading to pain and limb dysfunction. Majority of OA in dog occur secondarily to developmental orthopedic disease, such as cranial cruciate ligament disease, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, OCD, patella(knee cap) dislocation.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative disease resulting in changes to the tissues that comprise a joint, such as cartilage, joint capsule, and surrounding bone. OA can develop due to a primary problem with the joint (excess force or abnormal shape) or may develop through wear-and-tear activities of daily life. The primary cause of OA often cannot be identified in cats and the disease is less well understood compared to dogs.

Visit the American College of Veterinary Surgeons to see more common conditions that may require surgery