Dr. Randy Boudrieau, DVM, Diplomate ACVS & ECVS, has submitted a review comparing two procedures, TPLO and TTA, to stabilize the Cranial Crucial Ligament (CCL) deficient stifle joint. The popular tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) reduces the tibial plateua angle by radial osteotomy of proximal aspect of the tibia and rotation of proximal fragment. The tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) used to restore joint stability is accomplished by osteotomy of the tuberosity in the frontal plane with advancement of this bone fragment.
The report states the similarities and differences between the two procedures. Both are successful at restoring good limb function. Surgeon discretion and personal experience usually dictate which procedure is chosen.
You may read the whole report by clicking the following link
http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/121592540/PDFSTART
The Department of Small animal Clinical Science, Columbus, Ohio, did a study on 57 dogs that underwent the TTA. A questionnaire was sent to all owners to obtain their assessment of the procedural outcome. Eighteen breeds were represented with Labrador retrievers and mixed breeds predominating. Fifty-nine percent of their cases encountered complications, the majority of which were minor. Major complications were few but consisted of implant failure, tibial crest displacement and medial meniscal tears. Seventy percent of their owners responded to the survey with overall outcome considered good to excellent in 90%. The dogs activity level was improved in 90% of responses. The TTA surgery appears to be a useful alternative in the management of cranial cruciate ligament disease. Few severe complications were encountered. Good clinical outcome and owner satisfaction was reported with the procedure in their cases.
February 11th, 2009 by 
FindRetrievers.com Admin
