Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA) is a surgical procedure for treating cruciate ligament tears, especially the anterior cruciate ligament, in dogs. This procedure aims to change the biomechanics of the knee joint in such a way that the stability of the joint is guaranteed even without a functioning anterior cruciate ligament.
Indications
- Cruciate ligament tear: The main indication for a TTA is a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (Cranial Cruciate Ligament, CCL).
- Instability of the knee joint: Instability of the knee joint leading to pain and lameness.
Preliminary studies
- Clinical investigation: Evaluation of the dog’s general health status and specific symptoms in the knee joint.
- Imaging techniques: X-rays to determine the exact position and angle of the tibia and plan the operation.
- Blood tests: To review general health and identify possible risks or complications during surgery.
Procedures
1. Anesthesia: The dog is placed under general anesthesia.
2. Section line: An incision is made in the area of the affected knee joint.
3. Osteotomy: An incision is made along the tibial tuberositas (tibialtuberositas) to move this part of the bone forward.
4. Placement of the spacer: A specially shaped spacer or wedge is inserted into the resulting gap to hold the tibial tuberositas in the new position.
5. Fixation: The new position of the Tibialtuberositas is fixed with a titanium plate and screws.
6. Wound closure: The soft tissues and the skin are sewn layer by layer.
After-care
- Pain management: Pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs are given.
- Motion restriction: The dog must be restricted in its movement for several weeks after the operation to support healing.
- Physiotherapy: May be necessary to rebuild mobility and muscles.
- After-checks: Regular veterinary examinations and X-rays to monitor the healing process.
Benefits of the TTA
- Improved stability: The TTA changes the biomechanics of the knee joint so that the load on the anterior cruciate ligament is reduced.
- Faster recovery: Many dogs show a faster return to normal activity compared to other surgical techniques.
- Minimally Invasive: Smaller cuts and less soft tissue damage compared to conventional methods.
Forecast
The prognosis after a TTA is usually very good. Most dogs show a significant improvement in the stability and function of the knee joint and a reduction in pain after healing. Complications are rare, but as with any surgery, risks such as infections, bleeding, or injury to internal structures can occur.
