Extracapsular Lateral Suture

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL or CrCL), is the most important joint stabilizer in the knee. It connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) and prevents the tibia from sliding forward during normal leg use. ACL rupture is the most common source of knee problems in all sizes and breeds of dogs with all levels of activity. The ligament may be either fully or partially torn, but once damaged, has virtually no capacity to heal.  Instability results, producing knee pain that manifests as lameness.  Only surgery can restore proper limb stability and function.

Can Extracapsular Lateral Suture Stabilization be Performed in Any Size Dog?

This procedure is suitable for smaller dogs (less than 35 lbs.) that have a tibial plateau angle less than 25 degrees. There is no lower limit on patient size, but even small patients with a steep tibial plateau angle can have this procedure fail, requiring additional surgery. 

Recovery

The most important thing following surgery is restricting your dog’s activity, especially for the first six weeks.  No off-leash walks are allowed during this period, and leash walks should start light and gradually increase in length.  Stairs and slippery floors must be avoided for the first six weeks following surgery, and no jumping, playing or running is allowed.

How much does an Extracapsular Lateral Suture surgery cost?

The all inclusive fee is $2,100.00

This includes:

• Intake Physical Examination
• Pre-Anesthetic Bloodwork: CBC, full chemistry panel, clotting profile when indicated
• EKG
• I.V. Catheter
• I.V. Fluids
• Pre-Anesthetic analgesia drugs
• Preoperative imaging (radiographs)
• Anesthesia induction drugs tailored to the individual patient 
• Anesthesia Maintenance on isoflurane
• Anesthesia monitoring by: EKG, CO2 end tidal, O2 saturation, Blood pressure, body temperature
• ELS Knee Repair Surgery
• Postoperative imaging (radiographs)
• Post-surgical recovery monitoring
• Post-surgical therapy laser treatment
• Hospitalization as required
• Take home medications
• Recheck appointments