Without TPLO surgery, a dog with a torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) will likely suffer from chronic knee instability, leading to severe, progressive arthritis, persistent pain, and, in many cases, a torn meniscus. The instability often results in significant muscle atrophy (muscle wasting) in the affected leg, as the joint remains unstable and cannot heal on its own.

What is the alternative to TPLO surgery for dogs?

MMP is an alternative to TPLO, less invasive, Less expensive and heal much faster. It's a newer procedure develop in England and has become more popular in the US in recent years.

What happens if a torn ACL is left untreated in dogs?

If left untreated, a torn CCL can lead to: Severe arthritis in the affected joint. Compensatory injuries in the opposite leg. Decreased quality of life due to chronic pain.

Can a dog be ok without ACL surgery?

A torn ACL requires rest, immobilization, and sometimes surgery. It is entirely possible for a dog to recover from an ACL tear without surgery. Many dogs heal through surgery alternatives like orthopedic dog braces and supplements.

What happens if a dog doesn't get TPLO surgery?

Surgery stabilizes the knee, which decreases the development of arthritis over time. If your dog doesn't have TPLO surgery, over time, they will try to stabilize on their own and, in turn, develop significant arthritis in the process. Arthritis can severely decrease the quality of your dog's life.

5 Steps to Healing Your Dog's ACL Injury WITHOUT Surgery

Can a dog live ok with a torn ACL?

The answer to this question is both a yes and a no. Although your dog can live with cruciate ligament damage, its knees are not as healthy as yours. They can worsen over time and cause more health complications to the dog.

How to rehab an ACL tear without surgery?

Heel Slides

1. Start this exercise by lying on your back with both legs straight.
2. Slowly begin to actively bend your injured knee by sliding your heel towards you.
3. Pause at the point of pain or stiffness in the knee, then return to the starting position.
4. Perform 10-15 repetitions several times per day.

Is it okay to live with a torn ACL?

The knee might heal—the swelling and pain will stop. But a torn anterior cruciate ligament does not reattach or heal itself. You may still be able to live how you want by strengthening your leg and core (your hips contribute to leg strength and function) and adjusting your activities.

How long can I delay ACL surgery?

In one study, the effects of delaying ACL reconstruction surgery for more than 12 months were examined. It found that patients who postponed surgery beyond a year had a significantly higher risk of developing medial chondral injuries (damage to the cartilage on the inner side of the knee joint).

What are the long-term effects of a torn ACL without surgery?

Managing an ACL tear without surgery can lead to chronic knee instability, secondary joint damage, early-onset osteoarthritis, reduced physical activity, and muscle atrophy. These long-term effects not only impair knee function but also affect overall mobility and quality of life.

Does my dog really need TPLO surgery?

Myth 1 - TPLO Surgery Isn't Always Necessary for ACL Tears

These options are often best for smaller breeds or older dogs with minimal joint instability. In our experience, TPLO surgery is the best option for active dogs or those with complete ligament tears.

Can a dog run with a torn ACL?

Unlike the ACL in people, in dogs, the cruciate ligament is load-bearing because a dog's leg remains bent while they are standing. If your dog's cruciate becomes injured or torn, your dog's knee will become unstable, reducing your pup's ability to run and walk normally and causing pain.

Should I put my dog down if I can't afford ACL surgery?

First, DON'T; euthanasia is NOT the answer for this injury. There are several options to help a dog with a torn ACL.

Will a brace help a dog with a torn ACL?

A torn anterior cruciate ligament can severely impact your dog's mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, a dog stifle or knee brace can be an effective solution to support your pet during the healing process.

How long can you have a torn ACL before surgery?

The best time to have surgery is either immediately after the injury (within 24 hours) or several weeks later when the knee has regained its normal motion and the swelling has subsided. To operate on a knee that is swollen and stiff puts the patient at great risk for a permanently stiff.

What is the alternative to TPLO surgery?

Lateral Suture Technique (Extracapsular Repair)

This method stabilizes the knee and allows scar tissue to form, which eventually takes over the stabilization role. It has a reasonable success rate and is less invasive than TPLO surgery, though it may not be as effective in larger, more active dogs.

What is the failure rate of TPLO?

TPLO has a high success rate, with over 90-95% of dogs recovering well. However, failure can occur in 5-10% of cases due to infections, implant loosening, meniscal injuries, or delayed bone healing.

How urgent is TPLO surgery?

Yes and no. An ACL injury is not an emergency surgical procedure. However, our biggest concern is your pet's quality of life. As a general rule, we strongly feel the earlier we can address the injury, the more we can slow the progression of arthritis and the faster we can improve comfort in your pet's knee.

Does insurance cover TPLO?

Most modern pet insurance plans do cover TPLO surgery, but eligibility depends on policy terms and your dog's medical history. The key factor is whether the cruciate ligament injury is considered pre-existing.

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