Cruciate ligament repair
Cruciate ligament rupture is the most common orthopaedic problem in dogs. Our clinic uses two repair methods. TTA (tibial tuberosity advancement) permanently changes the forces acting on the knee by moving the tibial tuberosity forward; it suits active dogs and large dogs. The lateral suture stabilises the knee with strong synthetic material placed outside the joint; it suits cats and small dogs, and often medium-sized dogs and older, calmer large dogs as well. We always assess individually which method suits your dog best.
Fracture surgery and amputations
Our clinic performs fracture surgery in which bone fragments are fixed with plates, screws, or external fixators. Amputations are performed when necessary — limb, tail, or digits — for example due to severe trauma, tumour, or chronic pain. Animals adapt surprisingly well on three legs and quality of life improves when pain is eliminated.
Patella luxation and femoral head resection
Kneecap displacement (patella luxation) is common especially in small dog breeds. Treatment is surgical and the method is chosen based on the severity of the luxation. Femoral head osteotomy (FHO) is performed for example in chronic hip luxation or Legg-Perthes disease — the procedure removes the source of pain and the patient learns to use the limb without the hip joint.
Official radiographic examinations
Our clinic holds Finnish Kennel Club approval for official hip, elbow, and spinal radiographic examinations. Official examinations are part of breeding evaluations and aim to reduce the incidence of hereditary orthopaedic diseases. Examinations are performed under light sedation and images are sent to the Kennel Club evaluator.
Frequently asked questions about orthopaedics
How much does cruciate ligament surgery cost? Cruciate ligament repair using the lateral suture method costs €953 for cats and €1,203 for dogs. TTA surgery costs €1,703 (dogs under 20 kg) or €1,803 (dogs over 20 kg). The price includes anaesthesia, surgery, medication and supplies, and stitch removal. Follow-up visits are charged separately.
How much does fracture surgery cost? Fracture surgery costs between €1,203 and €2,003 depending on the fracture type, location, and fixation method (plates, screws, or external fixator). You receive an exact price estimate after radiographic and clinical examination.
How much do official radiographic examinations cost? Hip, elbow, and spine radiographs cost €302 (dogs under 40 kg or up to 3 spine images) or €362 (dogs over 40 kg or more spine images). The price includes light sedation and submission of the images to the Finnish Kennel Club assessor.
Can I get a price estimate before surgery? Yes. You get a price estimate before you decide on surgery, so you can plan the costs in advance.
How long is the recovery period after surgery? It depends on the procedure. After cruciate ligament surgery (TTA or lateral suture), exercise is strictly restricted for the first 6–8 weeks, and most dogs are back to normal exercise in about 3–4 months. Fracture surgery recovery typically takes 6–12 weeks. Rehabilitation and check-up visits are an essential part of recovery.
Can the cause of lameness be determined without surgery? Yes, most causes of lameness can be investigated without surgery. Orthopaedic examination, X-rays, and when needed ultrasound or CT provide an accurate diagnosis. Not all causes of lameness require surgery – for example, mild osteoarthritis and tendon problems are often treated conservatively with medication, rest, and rehabilitation. The veterinarian assesses the best treatment approach individually.