Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease for the Small Animal Practitioner

Cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) disease is a common pelvic limb condition in canines. It is most commonly a degenerative process but can also result from trauma. Diagnosis is primarily based on orthopedic examination using the cranial drawer and tibial compression (thrust) tests, although other secondary changes to the stifle and radiographic findings can be supportive. Surgical treatment is generally recommended, with good functional outcomes reported following many different procedures. Contralateral CrCL rupture, medial meniscal injuries, and secondary osteoarthritis are common concurrent or subsequent diagnoses, which require additional client education, monitoring, and treatment.