Risk factors for cruciate ligament rupture in dogs
Risk factors for the diagnosis of a unilateral cranial cruciate ligament rupture and for clinical management in dogs receiving primary veterinary care in the United Kingdom
Risk factors for cruciate ligament rupture in dogs: A new study from 2023 from Great Britain establishes the relationship between age, breed, sex and neutering/spaying and attempts to draw conclusions for treatment options.
Study summary
The aim of this study was to assess demographic risk factors associated with the diagnosis of unilateral cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture and to investigate demographic and clinical risk factors associated with the treatment of unilateral CCL rupture in dogs receiving primary veterinary care in the United Kingdom.
Study design
A retrospective cohort study was conducted to identify risk factors for cruciate ligament rupture in dogs. Clinical records were automatically searched and manually reviewed for cases of unilateral CCL rupture in 2019, and additional clinical management information was extracted. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to analyze the associations between risk factors and:
- Diagnosis of CCL rupture and
- clinical management (surgical or non-surgical).
The analysis included 1000 cases of unilateral CCL rupture and a random selection of 500,000 non-cases.
Results on risk factors for cruciate ligament rupture in dogs
After taking into account disruptive factors, in particular Dogs aged 6 to < 9 years, neutered male and female dogs, insured dogs, as well as the breeds Rottweiler, Bichon Frise and West Highland White Terrier, have an increased likelihood of being diagnosed with a unilateral CCL rupture.
For insured dogs and dogs with a Weight of ≥ 20 kg The likelihood of surgical treatment was increased, whereas in dogs with a Aged ≥ 9 years and dogs with non-orthopedic comorbidity The probability was lower at the time of diagnosis of a CCL rupture.
These findings help in identifying at-risk dogs, with Rottweilers and Bichon Frises being particularly predisposed. Furthermore, they contribute to a better understanding of the clinical reasons used in primary veterinary care when deciding between surgical or non-surgical treatment of a unilateral CCL rupture.
Link to the original study as a PDF
From our perspective and knowledge, the following should also be added as risk factors for a cruciate ligament rupture in dogs:
Risk factors for cruciate ligament rupture in dogs
race
Some dog breeds have a higher risk of cruciate ligament rupture than others. Large dogs such as Great Danes, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers have a higher risk of cruciate ligament rupture than small dogs.
Overweight
Obesity is another important risk factor for cruciate ligament rupture in dogs. When a dog is overweight, the knee joint is subjected to additional stress due to the extra weight, increasing the risk of injury.
Old
Middle-aged dogs (3-8 years) have a higher risk of cruciate ligament rupture than young or old dogs. This is because the knee joint changes and becomes less stable during growth and aging.
Activity level
Dogs that participate in activities requiring sudden stop-and-go movements, such as jumping and braking, have a higher risk of cruciate ligament rupture than less active dogs.
Gender
Female dogs have a higher risk of cruciate ligament rupture than male dogs. This is because they have a wider pelvic structure, which puts more stress on the knee joint.
genetics
Some dogs have a higher risk of cruciate ligament rupture due to their genetics. For example, Great Danes and Rottweilers are more prone to this injury because of their bone structure.
Previous injuries
Dogs that have already suffered a knee injury have a higher risk of cruciate ligament rupture. This is because the knee joint is already weakened and more susceptible to further injury.
anatomy
The anatomy, especially of the tibial plateau.
Knee joint abnormalities
Dogs with knee joint abnormalities have a higher risk of cruciate ligament rupture. Examples of knee joint abnormalities include a shallow or abnormal glenoid cavity, which can make the knee joint unstable.