VN April 2021

Vetnews | April 2021 27 Advantages for the dog when wearing the brace are reduced pain and swelling, a reduced incidence of the joints giving way and decreased sensations of instability. These factors amount to an increase in confidence in the use of the leg. Primm conducted research into client satisfaction with the use of an orthotic device versus TPLO for CCL injuries. The survey showed that the clients would make use of each of their choices again but there was a greater satisfaction with the choice of TPLO because of fewer associated complications. This implies that an assistive device is an acceptable option for those clients unwilling or unable to contemplate surgery. Recent research in the use of platelet rich plasma (PRP) to manage CCLD shows promise and canine models for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury have also been studied. This research has focused on partial tears and the premise that the PRP has the potential to promote ligament healing and repair and treat symptoms associated with osteoarthritis. Arthroscopy, gait analysis and other objective measurements were used in the assessment. At this stage more research is required. Prolotherapy is the minimally invasive injection of an irritant into a chosen area to alleviate pain or to rehabilitate an incompetent structure such as a ligament. The results of prolotherapy include improved mobility and quality of life. These are accompanied by a reduction in pain. Conclusion Creating a healthy stifle begins in puppyhood. Appropriate growth rates, body weight and body condition scores should be maintained throughout all life stages. Controlled exercise, appropriate strengthening and relevant muscle conditioning become the mainstay of both prevention of CCL damage and management after injury. The controversy surrounding manners in which to treat CCLD will probably remain but the benefits of physical therapy inmanaging the cruciate deficient stifle, nomatter the chosen treatment, will definitely remain. v Reference: Primm K. Brace yourself: Client satisfaction with orthotics vs. TPLO for cranial cruciate ligament injuries http://veterinarymedicine. dvm360.com/brace ¬yourself-client¬satisfaction¬with¬orthotics¬ vs¬tplo¬cranialcruciate¬ligament¬injuries Photo Credits 1. Advanced strengthening www.goldengaitcanine.com 2. Orthotics www.finndvm.com 3. PRP injection www.litecure.com 4. Return to sport www.ahah.co.za Customised veterinary medicines to effectively address your patient’s requirements Service Centre: 0860 109 779 or pharmacist@v-tech.co.za ISO 9001:2015 Accredited