Veterinary SurgeryRefer a case
Canine orthopedic surgery · Kentucky & Southern Indiana
Lateral suture surgery in Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky
Dr. Joshua A. Bruce, DVM, DACVS-SA provides board-certified lateral suture (extracapsular) stabilization for cruciate ligament injuries through KVS partner veterinary clinics.
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What is a lateral suture?
A torn cranial cruciate ligament (what owners often call a torn ACL) lets the knee slide unstably every time the leg bears weight. A lateral suture stabilizes the knee by placing a strong strand of surgical-grade material outside the joint, so it acts like the ligament while scar tissue forms around it to give long-term stability. Unlike TPLO, it doesn't involve cutting or plating the bone.
02
Is a lateral suture right for my dog?
It's generally considered for smaller or less active dogs, and for cats. Larger or very active dogs often do better with TPLO. Your primary veterinarian and KVS look at weight, activity level, age, the knee exam, and radiographs before recommending an option. Dr. Bruce generally considers a lateral suture for dogs about 25–30 pounds and under, depending on bone size, the slope of the tibial plateau, and body condition. It can also be done in cats, especially when the knee is very unstable.
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What surgery involves
The joint is opened and inspected (arthrotomy) and any damaged meniscus is addressed. Dr. Bruce then places a heavy-gauge nylon suture around the fabella, a small bone behind the knee, and through a bone tunnel in the front of the tibia, secures it with crimp clamps, and tensions it to stabilize the joint.
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How the KVS referral model works
Your veterinarian evaluates the knee.
KVS reviews and plans the case.
Surgery stays with the local team at the participating clinic, followed by a coordinated recovery and recheck plan.
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Recovery
Recovery means about 8–12 weeks of strict activity restriction: leash walks only, no running, jumping, or stairs, with gradual return to activity after rechecks. Keeping activity restricted protects the suture while scar tissue forms. Rechecks are at 2 weeks for suture removal and at 8 weeks to assess progress. As with TPLO, discharge instructions include exercises and a timeline, and KVS is developing text message and email reminders to guide rehab.
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Service area
Louisville Metro and surrounding Kentucky communities; Lexington and Central Kentucky partner practices; Southern Indiana. KVS is not a walk-in hospital. Availability is coordinated with participating veterinary clinics.
Common questions
Common questions about lateral suture surgery
Who performs lateral suture surgery for KVS?
Dr. Joshua A. Bruce, DVM, DACVS-SA, an ACVS board-certified small-animal surgeon and the owner of Kentucky Veterinary Surgery.
Where is lateral suture surgery performed?
At participating veterinary clinics in Louisville, Lexington, surrounding Kentucky communities, and Southern Indiana.
What's the difference between a lateral suture and TPLO?
A lateral suture stabilizes the knee with a strand outside the joint; TPLO changes the angle of the tibia with a bone cut and plate. TPLO is often preferred for larger, active dogs; a lateral suture can be a good fit for smaller dogs. [Link: Learn more about TPLO surgery → /tplo-surgery-kentucky]
How do I get started?
Begin with your primary veterinarian, who can examine your dog, take radiographs, and submit a referral to KVS.
Sources
References
- American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS). Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease. https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/cranial-cruciate-ligament-disease/
Next step
Start with the veterinary team who knows your pet.
Start with the veterinary team who knows your dog.
Find a partner clinic