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ACL Repair Surgery

ACL Repair Surgery in Tampa, FL

Hickory Hill Veterinary Services provides expert ACL repair surgery in Tampa, restoring stability and function to pets suffering from cruciate ligament injuries.

Understanding ACL (Cruciate Ligament) Injury in Pets

The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), equivalent to the ACL in humans, is the most commonly injured ligament in dogs. CCL rupture causes sudden or progressive hind limb lameness, joint instability, and rapid development of osteoarthritis if untreated. Injury typically occurs due to a combination of degenerative ligament disease and acute trauma. Cats and some livestock species can also be affected. Surgical repair is the treatment of choice for most dogs with CCL rupture, as it provides the best long-term outcomes for stability, comfort, and return to function.

What to Expect During ACL Repair Surgery

Our veterinary team at Hickory Hill Veterinary Services provides thorough pre-surgical evaluation and expert repair for cruciate ligament injuries.

Orthopedic Evaluation and Imaging

Our veterinarian performs a complete orthopedic examination including the tibial compression test and cranial drawer test to confirm CCL rupture. Digital radiographs assess joint changes and plan the surgical approach.

Pre-Surgical Preparation

Pre-anesthetic bloodwork confirms surgical readiness. Our team discusses surgical options, expected outcomes, and the recovery process with you before proceeding.

Surgical Repair

Our veterinarian performs the appropriate surgical technique to stabilize the joint. Common approaches include extracapsular repair (lateral suture technique) and tibial plateau leveling procedures depending on the patient’s size and condition.

Post-Operative Rehabilitation

Recovery from ACL repair requires controlled activity, physical rehabilitation exercises, and regular rechecks. Our team provides a structured recovery protocol and monitors your pet’s progress at follow-up appointments.

Why ACL Repair Surgery is Critical for Your Pet

Untreated CCL rupture leads to progressive joint instability, severe arthritis, muscle loss, and permanent lameness. Surgical repair provides the best chance for a return to normal activity and prevents long-term joint deterioration.

Restoring Joint Stability

Surgical repair eliminates the abnormal joint motion caused by CCL rupture, reducing pain, preventing further cartilage damage, and allowing the joint to heal properly.

Preventing Severe Arthritis

Joints left unstable after CCL injury develop severe osteoarthritis rapidly. Early surgical repair significantly reduces the degree of arthritis and preserves long-term joint function.

Return to Normal Activity

Most dogs return to normal activity levels within 3–6 months of successful surgery and appropriate rehabilitation, enjoying walks, play, and exercise without persistent lameness.

Practice Highlights

  • Expert Orthopedic Diagnosis: Thorough evaluation with digital radiographs
  • Multiple Surgical Techniques: Approach tailored to patient size and condition
  • Structured Rehabilitation Protocol: Guided recovery for optimal outcomes
  • Dr. Elizabeth Shrode, DVM: Experienced in orthopedic surgery and joint management

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ACL repair surgery, and why does my pet need it?

ACL (CCL) repair surgery stabilizes the knee joint after ligament rupture, eliminating pain-causing instability and preventing severe arthritis. Without surgery, most dogs develop progressive, debilitating arthritis and permanent lameness. Our team at Hickory Hill Veterinary Services will evaluate your pet and recommend the best surgical option.

How much does ACL repair surgery cost, and how long does it take?

ACL repair costs vary depending on the surgical technique, your pet’s size, and any additional diagnostics needed. Surgery typically takes 1–2 hours. Call (813) 373-5924 for a personalized estimate after evaluation.

How should I prepare my pet for ACL repair surgery, and what is the aftercare like?

Fast your pet from midnight before surgery. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork is required. After surgery, restrict activity strictly for 8–12 weeks, perform prescribed rehabilitation exercises, and administer all pain medications. Follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring recovery.

What conditions can ACL repair surgery treat or prevent in pets?

ACL repair surgery treats cranial cruciate ligament rupture, prevents progressive osteoarthritis, restores joint stability, and allows your pet to return to normal activity. It is the treatment of choice for most dogs with CCL rupture and provides superior long-term outcomes compared to conservative management alone.

How do I schedule an ACL repair consultation, and what are your hours?

Call (813) 373-5924 or visit 326 W. Bearss Avenue, Tampa, FL 33613. Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am–6pm.

Schedule Your Pet’s ACL Repair Consultation Today

Restore your pet’s mobility with ACL repair surgery in Tampa. Call (813) 373-5924 or visit 326 W. Bearss Avenue, Tampa, FL 33613. Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am–6pm.