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The stifle is by far the most commonly joint arthroscopically examined at GCVS, primarily due to the high prevalence of cranial cruciate ligament injury (CrCL). Arthroscopy allows all intraarticular work to be completed without painful arthrotomy.

Normal cruciate ligament	Typical CrCL tear	Motorized shaver being used to remove the remnants of a complete CrCL tear (arrow). Debridement is more accurate and complete.


	Meniscal tears can be more readily and reliably identified and treated with the arthroscope through two small punctures that usually require no sutures. A. Normal meniscal edge with tiny radial tear B. Normal meniscotibial ligament C. Bucket-handle tear of medial meniscus D. Small oblique tear of lateral meniscus E. Complex degenerative tear of the lateralmeniscus
OCD lesions of the stifle can also be confirmed and treated through the scope without need for invasive arthrotomy.

One of the most valuable roles of arthroscopy has been in the early detection of partial CrCL tears. Despite feeling stable during examination, osteoarthritis rapidly ensues and complete rupture occurs weeks to months later in almost all cases. Conservative treatment with rest and NSAIDs allows progression of osteoarthritis in almost all cases. However, studies indicate that early diagnosis and tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) can prevent over 80% of partial tears from becoming complete tears and dramatically slow the progression of arthritis.

These cases present for low grade lameness but often have palpably stable knees. Hyperextension of the joint during examination is often uncomfortable and frequently exacerbates lameness, which is often intermittent. Careful radiographic evaluation usually reveals subtle joint capsule effusion (black arrow) and eventually early osteophyte formation, especially on the poles of the patella (white arrow).

Partial tears are easily identified and confirmed arthroscopically. Most dogs (90%) have other arthroscopic signs of osteoarthritis, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis. TPLO is very effective at saving the intact portion of the ligament if performed early.

Small partial tear identified as majority of healthy ligament is retracted with probe.	Second-look Arthroscopy 1yr post TPLO showing saved partial tear

	Because all intraarticular work is done arthroscopically, TPLO can be performed through a small incision and without a painful arthrotomy. Most dogs are released from the hospital the day after surgery and already walking on the leg.

The Specialists at Gulf Coast Veterinary Surgery, Orthopedics & Neurology are available to consult with your veterinarian.
Please call if you have any questions:
Phone: 713-693-1122
Fax: 713- 693-1110

Stifle Arthroscopy

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