Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA) Surgery Brisbane Northside

Tibial tuberosity advancement, or TTA surgery, is an effective solution for dogs affected by cranial cruciate ligament disease, commonly referred to as ACL disease. This surgical procedure aims to stabilise the stifle joint, enabling your dog to return to its regular activities.

The cranial cruciate ligament is one of the four key ligaments that maintain stability in the stifle joint, which functions similarly to the human knee. Its primary role is to prevent the femur from sliding backward on the tibia. When the cranial cruciate ligament is torn or damaged, it loses its ability to stabilise the stifle joint, often resulting in your dog being unable to use the affected leg normally.

Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA) Surgery for Dogs

Tibial Tuberosity Advancement surgery is an innovative procedure designed to address injuries to the Cranial Cruciate Ligament in dogs. During this operation, the surgeon creates an incision at the front of the stifle joint to reposition the tibial tuberosity, which is a bony prominence on the tibia, moving it forward. This adjustment alters the joint angle and reduces the strain on the injured ligament.

While TTA surgery is suitable for dogs of all sizes, it is particularly common among medium and large breeds. The procedure typically lasts between one to two hours, with a postoperative hospital stay of one to two days; most dogs can resume their regular activities within 12 to 16 weeks after surgery.

If your dog has been diagnosed with a Cruciate Ligament injury, it is likely that your veterinarian may suggest TTA surgery, taking into account various factors such as your pet’s age, activity level, and the extent of the injury.

TTA Veterinary Surgery Recovery

After TTA surgery, your dog will need to remain in the hospital for one to two days, during which we will carefully monitor his pain levels and ensure he can urinate and defecate normally, with pain medication provided as needed. Once you bring your dog home, he will require a period of rest and limited activity for 12 to 16 weeks, which entails avoiding running, jumping, and playing. It’s crucial to keep him on a leash during walks and to prevent him from using stairs.

We will create a tailored exercise plan for you to follow at your post-operative appointment, as adhering to these guidelines is essential for proper healing of the incision and to prevent re-injury of the CCL. A follow-up appointment should be scheduled for two to three weeks after surgery, where we will examine your dog’s incision, remove any remaining stitches, and review his recovery progress while addressing any questions you may have.

TTA surgery for dogs FAQs 

Here are some frequently asked questions about tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) surgery for dogs.