Orthopedic Surgery

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is a comprehensive overview of stifle joint problems in the dog.  The diagnosis and treatment of cranial cruciate ligament injuries is the main focus.  Detailed lectures supported by extensive hands-on laboratory exercises expose the participants to the latest surgical methods that stabilize the CCL-deficient stifle joint.  Surgical methods employing the newest suture anchor technique and the tightrope technique for larger dog breeds are discussed in lecture and performed in the laboratory.  One day is devoted to tibial plateau leveling techniques where participants plan and perform a tibial leveling osteotomy.  Techniques for reconstructing collateral ligament injuries and the
deranged knee are addressed in lecture, and then performed in the laboratory using the PushLock® and/or swivel lock suture anchor system. 

The diagnosis and treatment of meniscal injury associated with CCL injury will also be covered. Anatomy of the lateral and medial meniscus, identification of meniscal tears and their treatment will be discussed in lecture and performed in the laboratory. 

The clinical and radiographic findings associated with patella luxation will be addressed in lectures as well as
treatment strategies to stabilize a luxating patella.  Management of cases with patella luxation and cranial cruciate ligament injury will be addressed. 

Discussions on peri-operative pain management and rehabilitation of the surgically treated stifle joint are included as a critical part of successful case management.  Alternative conservative methods of treating the osteoarthritic stifle joint with rehabilitation and drug therapy will be addressed.  The “What’s On the Horizon” segment will offer a look into future treatment strategies for stifle joint problems in the dog.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

As a result of attending this course, participants will be able to:

• use imaging modalities and physical findings to facilitate an early diagnosis of the CCL-deficient stifle joint.
• choose a treatment modality for the injured CCL based upon client expectations and patient signalment. 
• perform an appropriate physical examination and develop a treatment strategy for luxating patellas.
• discuss appropriate peri-operative pain management and rehabilitation modalities following stifle joint surgery.

COURSE LEADER

Don Hulse, DVM, DACVS

FACULTY

Brian Beale, DVM, DACVS
Michael Kowaleski, DVM, DACVS
James L. Cook, DVM, PhD, DACVS
Antonio Pozzi, DVM, MS, DACVS
John Innes, PhD, CertVR, DSAS, MRCVS