Cranial cruciate disease: current status of diagnosis, surgery, and risk for disease

Abstract

SummaryThe hypothesis of this study is concerned with the age of onset of cranial cruciate disease (CCD). We believe that dogs are presenting with CCD at a much younger age. We also believe there are other predictable factors that influence whether a dog suffers CCD. In this study we used data from the national companion animal study (NCAS) to compare not only age but body condition score (BCS), sex, diet, and breed. A survey form was given to referral hospitals that also provided information on diagnostic tests, surgical procedures and extent of damage. By using this data we were better able to establish an age at time of diagnoses, BCS, type of injuries and repair methods as well as correlation to type of diet fed. This study found that the average age at diagnosis is slightly younger than previously thought. Most dogs that suffer CCD are of greater than ideal body condition. We were also able to show a relationship between diet and CCD. Spayed females are most affected by CCD followed by neutered males. Those dogs fed a premium or therapeutic diet have a higher incidence of CCD. We were also able to establish baseline information regarding extent of injuries and the current methods of diagnosis and repair. This paper now provides a baseline for the tracking of future data regarding CCD parameters such as age at onset, breed, sex, BCS, methods of diagnosis and repair as well as nutritional factors.