When our dogs start struggling with their movements, it’s heartbreaking to watch. Simple things like climbing the stairs, going for walks, or even standing up after a nap can become painful challenges.
Joint problems can be somewhat common in dogs, especially as they age. This is why veterinarians continue to explore more options and procedures to help them get through these difficulties. One of those options is a total knee replacement in dogs.
A canine total knee replacement is a highly specialized procedure designed to restore comfort and function to a damaged knee joint. This helps dogs with their movement.
In this blog, we’ll explore what knee replacement in dogs is, which dogs need it, and how it can help.
What Is a Total Knee Replacement in Dogs?
This surgical procedure replaces the damaged parts of the knee joint with artificial or prosthetic components. These are often made out of metal and high-grade plastic. The goal of this procedure is to restore a dog’s smooth motion of the joint and eliminate the pain.
By doing so, dogs treated with a total knee replacement will have the ability to walk, run, and play more comfortably.
However, this surgery is considered an end-stage treatment option. This means that all other treatment options, such as medication, joint supplements, weight management, and other surgeries, have not been successful.
Unlike other procedures, like a CCL repair, a total knee replacement totally replaces the entire joint surface.
Which Dogs Need a Total Knee Replacement Surgery?
Dogs that require this type of surgery are those that have joints damaged so badly that other treatments can’t provide relief. Here are some instances when dogs need it:
Severe Osteoarthritis
The most common reason why dogs need a TKR is end-stage osteoarthritis. At this stage, the cartilage in the knee has already worn away completely. Because the protective layer is gone, the bone will rub against the bone and cause friction, pain, and stiffness.
Cruciate Ligament Disease
Many dogs suffer from cranial cruciate ligament ruptures that destabilize the knee and lead to pain, stiffness, and possibly arthritis. While other surgeries, such as a Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy and Tibial Tuberosity Advancement, are done first, they won’t help if the damage is advanced.
Traumatic Injury
A major traumatic injury like getting hit by a car or suffering from a severe fall can shatter the knee joint. In cases where repair isn’t possible, a canine total knee replacement surgery might be needed to restore function.
Failed Previous Surgeries
Sometimes, dogs will have undergone other types of knee surgeries for fractures, deformities, or cruciate tears. When these treatment options do not work out, a knee replacement surgery can be a salvage procedure to provide lasting comfort.
Bone or Joint Malformation
For abnormal joint structures that can progress to painful conditions, dogs may need a total knee replacement surgery.
Types and Designs of the Prostheses for a Canine TKR
Since all dogs are different, so are the implants for the knee replacement. But the goal stays the same: it's to create a stable and pain-free knee that functions naturally as it should.
Commercial prostheses for TKR are pre-manufactured implants that are available in different sizes. They’re mostly designed for larger dogs and consist of a metal part for the femur and a plastic one for the tibia.
For dogs with joint abnormalities and deformities, we might use custom implants that fit their situation. These implants are used whenever commercial ones do not fit properly.
The Process of a Total Knee Replacement in Dogs
The procedure is done through a series of steps to ensure success and your dog’s comfort. Our expert on orthopedic surgery, Dr. Sarabjit Singh, will be leading the treatment.
Pre-Operative Checkup
Before surgery even begins, dogs undergo a full health evaluation to make sure they’re suitable candidates. Our vets will do an orthopedic exam and use X-rays and CT scans to get a full view of the problem.
Other tests, such as bloodwork, chest radiographs, and other safety screenings, are performed to ensure a successful surgery.
Preparation
On the day of the surgery, your dog will be admitted early for pain meds, fluids, and anesthesia. Once your dog is comfortable, our vets will shave the surgical area and sterilize it properly.
Incision and Removal
Our vets will begin by creating an incision over the knee joint, usually on its side. This allows us direct access to the stifle joint. Once inside, we’ll begin removing the damaged cartilage and bones until the joint is cleaned of any diseased tissue.
The tibia and femur are then carefully shaped using specialized cutting guides or jigs to prepare for the prosthetic components. Doing so allows us to make precise movements and ensure the proper alignment of the implant. After all, our goal is comfort for several years.
Fitting and Trial
Temporary trial implants are placed to test the fit, motion, and balance of the joint. This allows us to make sure that this implant will work just like a natural component. Adjustments will be made accordingly. If everything is good to go, we’ll proceed with knee replacement.
Knee Replacement
The metal implant is attached to the end of the femur, with a metal tray attaching to the top of the tibia. This metal tray has a polyethylene plastic component that acts like a low-friction spacer and helps dogs bear weight.
Next, we will secure these implants using either of the two methods: cemented or cementless fixation.
Cemented Fixation. This method uses a special bone cement to secure the implants immediately. Cemented fixation offers excellent long-term stability and is mostly used for dogs with weaker bones.
Cementless Fixation. This method relies on specially coated implant surfaces that encourage the dog’s bones to grow directly into the implant. This takes a bit longer to stabilize but offers a more natural fix for younger dogs.
After this, we will stabilize the area and do any finishing touches, such as closing and cleaning.
Post-Operative Care
After surgery, dogs typically remain hospitalized for several days to a few weeks. During their stay, they will be given pain meds, antibiotics, and other needs by our orthopedic vets. X-rays will be regularly used to keep a close eye on the procedure’s progress.
Hospital stays will also involve very light physical therapy to recover strength and mobility. Upon discharge, strict rest is to be observed at home.
Risks and Complications of a Canine Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Like any major surgery, a canine total knee replacement carries risks and potential complications. The main risks during and shortly after surgery include infection, excessive bleeding, or anesthetic complications.
Two of the most common long-term issues are implant loosening and luxation of the joint. The loosening can happen if the implant loses its tight grip with the bone, which can be a possibility in active dogs or those with weaker bones. These can both result in sudden lameness.
Some dogs can also develop joint stiffness, the buildup of scar tissue, nerve or ligament damage, blood clots, or bone fractures.
Recovery for Dogs After Total Knee Replacement
The results of a canine total knee replacement surgery are often very positive. Strict and consistent recovery is a crucial part of the process. Dogs will need a few weeks and months to fully recover, provided that they are cared for every step of the way.
This is just a general guide, as the exact timeframe can vary per dog.
Initial Recovery (First 1 to 4 Weeks)
The initial recovery phase will begin at the hospital. This can last anywhere from days to weeks. Here, their conditions will be closely monitored, and anything they need will be provided. When they get home, strict rest is required. This means no running, jumping, or playing.
Dogs must be kept in a confined room that prevents any form of physical activity. The incision site will also need to be regularly maintained, along with an Elizabethan collar to prevent them from licking it. Plus, dogs will need regular physical therapy sessions and vet visits for rehabilitation.
Gradual Recovery (4 to 6 Weeks)
As healing progresses, the focus will shift to increased, but controlled exercises. Dogs can now begin longer, leash walks alongside some exercises recommended by our vets. More structured activities for physical therapy can be done, with hydrotherapy being a favorable choice.
Long-Term Recovery (6 Weeks and Beyond)
Now that your dog is starting to get better, the long-term recovery process will start. Like the gradual recovery phase, dogs will be given increasing amounts of exercise and physical therapy as they are now able to comfortably build confidence and endurance.
Owners must also be mindful of their diets, as a healthy weight can ensure long-term recovery. Regular checkups and X-rays are still essential to monitor progress. Full recovery can take up to 12 weeks or more.
“Surgeries aren’t meant for pain, but to remove it altogether and bring back your dog’s joy.”
- Dr. Sarabjit Singh
Final Thoughts
Watching our dogs struggle with their favorite activities can be heartbreaking. Fortunately, modern vet care offers hope for more walks, runs, and playtime with our best friends. A total knee replacement surgery is just one of the many advancements made to help our best friends.
Share
