Avulsion of the Tibial Tuberosity

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                      General Information



Avulsion of the tibial tuberosity is the tearing away of a small

bony crest just below the knee joint.  If a pet is dropped or

falls and lands with all its weight on one rear foot, the strong

muscle pull of the upper leg can cause this tearing.



Signs of avulsion are pain, turning the toes inward and holding

the leg off the ground at all times.  Diagnosis is by x-ray

examination.



Surgical treatment to re-attach and anchor the fragment is

necessary.  In addition, a splint or bandage to restrict

movement may be necessary.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Exercise:  Exercise should be limited to on-leash walking for

    ____ days/weeks.  Exercise can be gradually increased after ____

    weeks.  Keep your pet off of slippery floors or walks.



2.  Splints/bandages:  In some cases, a splint or heavy bandage

    is used following surgery.  Keep the splint or bandage dry.

    Place a plastic bag over it when your pet must go outdoors in

    wet weather.  Discourage chewing or licking of it.  Call the

    doctor if this becomes a problem.



3.  Splint/bandage/suture removal:  Your pet will be evaluated

    for splint, bandage or suture removal in ____ ____ ____

     _______ days.



4.  Diet:



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is necessary.  Feed:





       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet seems to be in pain or is uncomfortable.



    * Your pet chews or damages the splint or bandage.



    * There is swelling or drainage from the surgical site.



    * There is a foul odor from the splint or bandage.



    * Your pet refuses to use the injured leg within 1 week after

    splint removal.