Why Owners Choose an Orthosis over Stifle Surgery for Canine Cranial Cruciate Ligament Deficiency

The objective of this study was to describe the patient population of dogs with cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) deficiency that were prescribed a stifle orthosis. A total of 215 client-owned dogs with previously diagnosed CrCL deficiency were prescribed a stifle orthosis at a veterinary pain management and mobility clinic. Patient intake data collected included dog signalment, chief medical complaint, home environment and activity description, medical and surgical history, and diagnosing veterinarian. An orthopedic examination was conducted to assess pelvic limb function and determine pelvic limb morphologic measures. Spayed females (57.2%) were most common in our sample. Median age, body weight, and body condition score were 9.00 ± 3.23 years, 32.98 ± 13.37kg, and 6.00 ± 1.04, respectively. Most common breeds prescribed stifle orthoses included Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and German Shepherd. Right and left limbs were equally affected, and 19.5% of dogs previously had stifle stabilization surgery. Primary reasons for seeking a stifle orthosis consultation were surgical concerns, advanced age, and surgery cost. Most common chief complaints included altered gait, decreased weight bearing, and pain following activity. Reduced stifle extension, increased cranial drawer score, and decreased 3-leg stance time characterized the CrCL-deficient stifle. Stifle orthosis represents an alternative approach to surgical stabilization and management of CrCL deficiency. CrCL-deficient dogs prescribed stifle orthoses were generally large breeds of advanced age with above ideal body condition score. Owners commonly sought a stifle orthosis for CrCL deficiency due to reservations regarding surgical management.