If not stabilized, the joint will become dramatically arthritic over time. Rest and anti-inflammatory medications have little effect upon the pain and lameness the dog experiences. This is easy in acute, complete ruptures, but may be more subtle in chronic or partial tears. In other words, rather than replacing the cable which broke in the first place, this procedure will level the surface and eliminate the need for the cable . Meniscal injuries are also corrected during the surgery in order to prevent further arthritic changes in the joint.
Strict confinement is mandatory during the healing process.
Because the plateau leveling allows the joint pain to rapidly subside, the major problem during recovery is excessive patient activity prior to the completion of bone healing. Most patients return to controlled activity in 2 months, and full activity in 3 to 4 months.