A Practical Approach to Navigating Stifle Disease
Stifle disease is one of the most common causes of pelvic limb lameness in dogs and cats, yet arriving at the correct diagnosis and treatment plan can be challenging in general practice. In this practical session, Dr. Karanvir S. Aulakh, a board-certified small animal surgeon, will provide a systematic approach to navigating common and less common stifle conditions, including cranial cruciate ligament rupture, meniscal injury, patellar luxation, traumatic injuries, developmental disorders, and stifle diseases that do not fit the classic cruciate or patellar luxation presentation. Attendees will learn how to improve diagnostic accuracy through orthopedic examination and radiographic interpretation, develop rational treatment plans, and recognize when referral, surgery, or advanced imaging may be indicated. Participants will leave with greater confidence in evaluating stifle disease, counseling clients, and optimizing patient outcomes.
- Develop a systematic approach to evaluating stifle disease in dogs and cats, including orthopedic examination, localization, and radiographic interpretation.
- Differentiate common and uncommon causes of stifle lameness, including cranial cruciate ligament rupture, meniscal injury, patellar luxation, traumatic injuries, and developmental disorders.
- Improve clinical decision-making regarding treatment options, conservative management, surgical intervention, and when advanced imaging or referral is warranted.
- Strengthen confidence in client communication, prognosis, and long-term management of patients with stifle disease.
