The Cutting Edge Veterinary Podcast

STUDENTS: Madeleine Browne and Kianna Vandergraaf

FACULTY MENTORS: Drs. Marina McConkey and Ning Cheng

Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease is the leading cause of stifle lameness facing canine patients today. Surgical intervention, namely osteotomy, is currently the gold standard approach to treating CCL injuries. The majority of North American surgeons performing these procedures recommend physical rehabilitation for all postoperative patients. The body of literature studying the benefits of physical rehabilitation in these patients is growing, but more long-term and high-quality studies are needed. Our literature review demonstrated that physical rehabilitation programs must be individualized to the patient and adhere to fundamental principles of soft tissue healing. This ensures maximum return to function and quality of life. Certain populations of CCL deficient dogs, such as geriatric patients or those with financial constraints, may not have the option of surgery. These patients should also be offered physical rehabilitation to improve positive outcome measures. Join us as we explore the important role general practitioners play in managing these patients. We will discuss practical options for introducing rehabilitation into your daily practice. This involves determining your client's perspectives and formulating a uniquely tailored short- and long-term treatment plan. Finally, we will help you prepare to have client conversations regarding referral to nearby rehabilitation certified veterinary professionals.