Specialty Results  

Orthopedic exam under sedation yielded no new information that would change our 
present hypotheses.  There was no pain on dorsoflexion of the tail or on left stifle 
palpation.  

Radiographs also showed no obvious abnormalities.  Although we noted the possibility of 
caudally displaced quadriceps on the lateral view that was inconclusive.  The radiographs 
did nothing to further support or change our present rule-outs as ligament tears would not 
be evident on a radiograph.  

After consideration of the specialty results it is our opinion that there was in fact a cranial 
cruciate tear (probable partial based on apparent heal time) one year ago.  The recent 
findings would indicate a reinjury or progressive damage to a meniscus.  As this dogÕs 
leg was healing there was scarring and thickening of surrounding tissue making smooth 
joint motion difficult which could account for the medial buttressing that we have seen.  .  
If during the initial insult there was also meniscal damage then that damage may have 
progressed to a point where removal or partial removal is indicated.  This dog may have 
been predisposed genetically to ACL tears based on confirmation and patella luxation and 
exacerbated by being overweight. 

Although we requested blood work be performed on this animal, in order to rule out 
infection the radiographs and orthopedic exams do not support a diagnosis based on an 
infectious cause.