Petlig method

Petlig method Further development of the Zlig method

The Petlig Method® is a further development of the Vetlig/Zlig method and is essentially based on the following modifications:

  • By using a stronger artificial cruciate ligament from the Novalig® brand, we no longer see any tears in the artificial cruciate ligament
  • Bands made from the same medical fibers that are used in human medicine
  • The woven structure of the Novalig® tape promotes tissue growth and maximizes mechanical resistance (proven better than free fibers)
  • The Novalig® band was developed with specialized French surgeons and the Vetagro Sup-University
  • Novalig® tapes are made in France by the manufacturer of Novalig® tapes
  • The manufacturer Novetech supplies a complete set of tools that was specially developed for cats and dogs - the pointing device, which enables the necessary tunnel to be drilled in a consistently reproducible manner - this is particularly important
  • The Novalig-Band® has now proven itself in 10 different applications and is not only limited to the Petlig-Method® (e.g. also for litteral suture reins)
Petlig method Novalig band
Novalig band for the Petlig Method®

Petlig Method® – Advantages


In our opinion, the Petlig Method®, which was developed from the experience of over 200 Zlig/Vetlig operations in the last two years, has the following advantages over the ZLig method , but also over the methods mentioned above. TTA or TPLO :

If you look at the studies mentioned on TPLO or TTA, they all have in common that the healing of the bone structure - especially around the drill holes, but also with the screws used - is one of the main weaknesses in the healing process.

That's why it was important to us to reduce the use of screws as much as possible and thus enable an even higher probability of success for the patients' chances of recovery. This happens, among other things, through the use of artificial bands that are equipped with so-called toggles.

Since the Novalig® tapes with 8000 Nm are superior to comparable competing products not only in structure but also in durability, the use of these tapes is an important part of the Petlig Method®.

Inside-out method

In addition, we use the so-called inside-out method during the operation. A significant advantage, especially in older animals with bilateral cruciate ligament ruptures :

Bilateral cruciate ligament rupture using the Petlig Method®

Thanks to our well-rehearsed team, we operate on both legs at the same time , meaning the animal only runs the risk of anesthesia once and the operation time is similar to that of a simple cruciate ligament operation, as two surgeons work at the same time.

Instead, this phenomenon would have to be treated in two operations using the TPLO method, with a healing time of 8 weeks between each operation. This means a double risk of anesthesia, but also worse chances of recovery for the operated leg, as it cannot bear full weight and does not receive any support from the leg that has not yet been operated on.

Petlig Method® in the video

Bilateral cruciate ligament rupture 2 days after surgery
bilateral cruciate ligament rupture dog 7 days after surgery with the Petlig method
Scroll up