The cost of ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery for dogs can vary significantly, as stated by Dr. Alex Schechter, D.V.M., founder of Burrwood Veterinary in Detroit. The price range can be anywhere between $1,500 to $4,000 or even higher, depending on several factors.
One of the key factors that determine the cost is the type of surgery performed. There are different types of surgeries available for ACL repair in dogs, including Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO), Extracapsular Repair (ECR), and TightRope Repair. Among these, TPLO is the most expensive due to its complexity and the specialized equipment and surgical expertise required. The cost of TPLO surgery can vary from $3,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the dog’s size, the location of the veterinary clinic, and the surgeon’s experience.
The size of the dog also plays a significant role in determining the cost. Larger dogs require more medication and anesthesia for the procedure and follow-up treatment, which increases the overall cost of the surgery.
Moreover, the severity of the injury affects the cost as well. The type of injury or rupture the dog is experiencing will determine the best treatment or type of surgery it needs for proper repair.
Lastly, the cost varies depending on who performs the surgery. If a general veterinary practitioner performs the surgery in their clinic, it may be less expensive than if a board-certified veterinary surgeon performs the procedure in a surgical facility.
When considering the cost of ACL surgery for your dog, it’s important to ask your veterinarian for a detailed quote that breaks down the individual costs of each element of the procedure. This will help you understand what aspects of the procedure are included in the cost and what might be considered an extra charge.
In general, most clinics will package costs associated with the surgery into one total price, says Dr. Jacqueline Brister, D.V.M., a veterinary consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance. Some surgeons will bundle the entire cost so that pre-anesthetic testing (e.g. x-rays, lab work), intraoperative management and monitoring, the surgery itself, post-operative monitoring and management, as well as initial check-ups are covered in the initial cost.
Canine ACL surgery, as Dr. Alex Schechter points out, is a complex and costly procedure. However, not all expenses are typically included in the initial cost of the surgery. It’s crucial for dog owners to be aware of these additional costs to prepare themselves financially.
Schechter highlights that supplementary expenses such as prescription drugs, medical equipment, physical therapy, extra diagnostic tests or imaging, and unforeseen medical conditions requiring further care are often not included in the surgery’s final price. Other potential add-ons comprise major surgical complications like infections, implant failure, or delayed bone healing, measures to expedite recovery (e.g., laser therapy or hyperbaric oxygen therapy), and pain medications or antibiotics for post-operative care.
The necessity for ACL surgery in dogs with knee issues depends on several factors, including their activity levels, size, age, skeletal conformation, and the degree of knee instability. Dogs with complete or near-complete ligament tears will likely require surgery to maintain a pain-free life. The American College of Veterinary Surgeons reports that 40% to 60% of dogs with CCL disease in one knee may eventually develop similar issues in the other knee.
While surgery offers the best treatment to control knee joint instability, it doesn’t repair the CCL. Leaving a torn ACL untreated can lead to chronic pain, instability, and limited mobility. The affected leg might weaken, leading to compensatory issues with other limbs or joints. Secondary arthritis, caused by persistent stress on other knee and hip joints, can result in more pain and reduced mobility.
Depending on the dog’s overall health and injury severity, non-surgical treatments could be considered. These alternatives include restricting activity, providing anti-inflammatory medication, rehabilitation therapy, and using custom knee braces. Although these options can offer some comfort and support, they don’t address the underlying pain or inevitable ligament tear.
Even when ACL surgery is recommended, owners can choose not to proceed with it. This decision would require adapting the dog’s life to its condition. Megan Marrs, a dog trainer and founder of K9 of Mine, shared her experience consulting a surgeon about her dog’s knees. The surgeon gave her the option to forgo surgery, suggesting pain medication to maintain her dog’s quality of life, albeit with limited mobility. Marrs ultimately chose to have the double surgery to ensure her dog’s full mobility, especially considering his young age.
In conclusion, while ACL surgery is a viable solution for many dogs with knee problems, owners should be prepared for additional costs and consider alternative treatments if necessary. The decision to undergo surgery should be well-informed, taking into account the dog’s overall health, lifestyle, and long-term well-being.