Dr. Alyssa Cornelius has completed advanced training in cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) repair utilizing the Extracapsular Lateral Suture technique.
The Extracapsular Lateral Suture repair is an advanced surgical technique used to treat rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), the canine equivalent of the human anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). CCL rupture represents one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs, affecting patients of all breeds and sizes, with increased prevalence in larger breeds such as Labrador retrievers and Rottweilers. The canine knee, or stifle joint, closely resembles the human knee. The cranial cruciate ligament, located within the joint, provides essential stability by preventing forward movement and rotation of the tibia relative to the femur. When this ligament is compromised, the joint becomes unstable, resulting in pain, lameness, and progressive degenerative joint disease (arthritis) if left untreated. The lateral suture technique is a well-established and effective method for stabilizing the joint and restoring function, helping to reduce pain and improve long-term mobility.
Your pet will receive comprehensive pre-surgical care consistent with the high standards we maintain for all surgical patients. This includes a complete physical examination, appropriate diagnostics, individualized anesthesia planning, and vigilant intraoperative monitoring. Radiographs (X-rays) of the affected knee will be obtained for surgical planning. Additionally, Dr. Cornelius will evaluate the hips for any signs of arthritis or dysplasia prior to proceeding with surgery.
At the time of discharge, you will receive detailed instructions outlining your pet’s post-operative care, including medication administration and activity restrictions. Pain management is a priority, and medications, along with sedatives when indicated, will be provided to ensure your pet remains comfortable and calm during recovery. Strict activity restriction is essential to support proper healing. Recovery typically requires a minimum of eight weeks of limited activity to allow stabilization and tissue healing.
Follow-up care is a critical component of recovery:
Our team is committed to supporting you and your pet throughout the recovery process to achieve the best possible outcome.
