Tearing the anterior cruciate ligament is a common injury in dogs and can lead to serious problems. One of the most common consequences is knee internal rotation, which disrupts the biomechanics of the knee joint and leads to excessive stress on the joint structures. As a result, secondary osteoarthritis due to cartilage wear may occur, as well as possible damage to the dorsal horn of the internal meniscus. The Meutstege operation is used to enable natural healing of the knee joint.
What is the Meutstege operation ?
The Meutstege operation is a special tightening technique of the structures surrounding the knee joint (capsule and fascia) to correct knee misalignment and promote natural healing of the knee joint. The operation is carried out with self-dissolving stitches so that after the stitches have been absorbed, there is no longer any foreign body in the knee joint.
Success rate and complications
The Meutstege operation is performed on dogs with a body weight between 5 kg and around 15 kg. The success rate of the surgical technique is between 84% and 92%, as scientific studies by Allgoewer in 2000, Meutstege in 2002 and Conzemius in 2005, Berger 2014 have shown. The complication rate is approximately 16%. But unfortunately in our experience it is not well suited for heavier dogs.
Additional measures to improve recovery
To improve recovery after surgery, intra-articular hyaluronic acid can be applied to promote joint metabolism. Additionally, bilateral gold acupuncture of the knee joints may be offered postoperatively to reduce the risk of osteoarthritis and possible tear of the contralateral anterior cruciate ligament.
Conclusion
Meutstege surgery is a successful treatment method for anterior cruciate ligament tears in dogs. With a high success rate and low complications, the surgery can help heal the knee joint and improve the little dog's quality of life. With improved recovery due to the additional measures to promote joint metabolism and the reduction of osteoarthritis and possible tears of the contralateral anterior cruciate ligament, the Meutstege procedure is a suitable option for dog owners who want quick and successful treatment of the anterior cruciate ligament tear.
Overall, the Meutstege operation is a promising alternative to other surgical methods. With its high success rate, low complication rate, and implant-independent technique, Meutstege surgery can help heal dogs' knee joints and improve their quality of life.