canine stifle meniscus

[lehughes]

Laurie
I have a question regarding the procedure demonstrated in video training 09 dated 15 Aug 2012.

Are you using this technique in acute presentations of post-op meniscal tears or chronic?

Since 2012, do you have any more data on its success ? Do you still do this or have you modified the technique?

I have a 3yo labrador that had TTA done approximately 12months prior to presentation to me who has been intermittently lame since surgery and has a meniscal clunk. The owners are reluctant to do surgery so we are trying laser and ther ex first. I wondered if I should try your technique to realign the tear as well but wasn’t sure if it would be too late.

Dr K.F.

[lehughes]

Hello K,

Okay… Yes, this is still the technique we use on the post-op meniscal tears (acute or chronic).
No real modifications (it’s not pretty). My biggest advice is to pull harder than you think - especially on the large / giant dogs.
Still about a 50% success rate.
I’d say that in your case, it’s worth a try… especially since the lameness is intermittent.
Beyond that, treat the joint as if it was arthritis - laser, shockwave, acupuncture, joint mobs, ther ex that doesn’t flare it, joint supplements.

I find that even if surgery is required, owners are actually content that they ‘at least tried’ to correct the problem without surgery first.

Best of luck!

Laurie