TTA‐Rapid for treating the canine cruciate deficient stifle: Medium to long‐term outcome and analysis of risk factors

Background This study aimed to evaluate medium to long‐term outcomes following treatment of lameness associated with cranial cruciate ligament insufficiency using the tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA)‐Rapid technique and to investigate risk factors associated with outcome, including tibial plateau angle (TPA). Methods Patient records for cases treated over an 80‐month period were examined retrospectively. An owner postal questionnaire using a clinical metrology instrument (Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs) evaluated the outcome at least 6 months after surgery. Results A total of 149 procedures were carried out in 120 dogs. Questionnaires were received for 64 dogs (53.3%), with a median follow‐up time of 37.5 months. Outcome was judged to be satisfactory, based on frequency of lameness, in 63 (98.4%), while satisfactory outcomes were achieved in 61 (95.3%) based on severity of lameness and in 50 (78.1%) based on mobility score. Statistical analysis showed that age, bodyweight, TPA, meniscal injury and concurrent patellar surgery did not influence outcome, but time to follow‐up positively correlated with mobility score. Limitations This study involved one surgeon in one centre with outcome data based on the completion of an owner questionnaire, although this used a validated clinical metrology instrument. Conclusion TTA‐Rapid offers a treatment option for cranial cruciate‐deficient stifles with a good medium to long‐term outcome, and no risk factors were identified to suggest any limitations to its use.