Tibial Tuberosity Advancement TTA)

A new surgical technique for Cruciate Disease

When it comes to in-house skills and facilities, Highcroft is one of the leading independent veterinary practices in the country. This is something we constantly invest in and build on so that we can continue to provide the highest levels of care.

The most recent addition to our skills set is an advanced surgical technique for treatment of cruciate disease in dogs, called tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA). This new technique is being performed by veterinary surgeons Robert Dawson and Joe Fox.

In cruciate disease one of the ligaments in the knee starts to weaken or tear causing instability and pain. It is a very common disease, especially in some of the larger breeds like Labradors and Rottweillers. Dogs with cruciate problems are lame in the affected knee. The problem is often progressive and always leads to rapid development of severe arthritis.

Unfortunately, traditional repair with a nylon ligament is not an ideal solution as the artificial material stretches and eventually fails over time. This leads to some instability and will not completely stop the progression of the arthritis.

The TTA operation, however, alters the shape of the knee such that all strain is removed from the cruciate ligament, which is then no longer needed. The operation provides permanent stability of the knee improving both the short and long term outlooks for the dog.

Another advantage is that the recovery time is very quick, and the dog is often using the leg well within 48 hours - as Buster (whose knee is shown here) will testify.