A patient was referred to Veterinarium from Armenia to undergo a complex surgical procedure

A patient was referred to Veterinarium from Armenia to undergo a complex surgical procedure. 

In Armenia, a Golden Retriever named Jessie was diagnosed with a cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) rupture and underwent a lateral suture procedure. Unfortunately, the surgical site subsequently became infected, with persistent purulent discharge.

Postoperative infection in joint surgery is particularly serious because:

 • Infection can rapidly spread within the joint and lead to septic arthritis 

 • Articular cartilage and surrounding soft tissues may become irreversibly damaged

 • Tissue healing is significantly compromised

 • The prognosis for any further reconstructive procedure worsens considerably

In addition, there was iatrogenic damage to the medial and lateral collateral ligaments, the caudal cruciate ligament, and the menisci. As a result, the stifle became severely unstable, and Jessie was no longer able to bear weight on the left pelvic limb. 

Given the collateral ligament damage and the chronicity of the injury, total knee replacement was unfortunately no longer a viable option.

Jessie’s owner contacted Veterinarium and transported her from Armenia in search of an optimal solution.

Under the direction of our Head Veterinarian, Dr. Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, advanced CT imaging was performed for precise surgical planning.

Based on the CT data, we designed and manufactured patient-specific surgical guides and a custom implant for stifle arthrodesis, ensuring maximal accuracy and optimal alignment.

Jessie subsequently underwent stifle arthrodesis.

Stifle arthrodesis is a technically demanding salvage procedure in which the joint is permanently fused in a functional position. The goal is to eliminate pain and restore limb weight-bearing function by achieving solid osseous fusion, despite the loss of joint motion.

The surgery was performed by Dr. Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze. Anesthesia was managed by Natia Robakidze. The assistants were Luka Ghlonti and Giorgi Loladze. 

Jessie has now returned to Armenia, and her rehabilitation is progressing well.