What is tightrope surgery for CCL tear?

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1. Stabilization Method:
   
   • Extracapsular Imbrication/Traditional Repair: These methods typically utilize a leader line (suture) woven in a figure-eight pattern across the knee joint, connecting a bony protrusion on the femur to a small hole drilled in the top of the tibia. The leader line serves as a temporary stabilizer until scar tissue forms, ultimately providing knee joint stability.
   • Tightrope CCL: Instead of a leader line, a stronger material called Fiber Tape is used to connect bone to bone. Fiber Tape is held in place on the bone via metal anchors and small holes drilled through the bone. This method provides greater durability and strength compared to traditional suture methods.
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1. Surgical Approach:
   
   • Extracapsular Imbrication/Traditional Repair: Typically involves a few inches long incision on the knee joint to access and perform the repair.
   • Tightrope CCL: Involves making a few small incisions to access the points of attachment to the bone. This approach is considered minimally invasive.

1. Durability and Recovery:
   
   • Extracapsular Imbrication/Traditional Repair: Relies on scar tissue formation for long-term stability once the leader line breaks.
   • Tightrope CCL: Utilizes Fiber Tape, which is more durable and provides longer-lasting stabilization. This can lead to a potentially longer recovery time for the dog due to the increased strength of the repair.

1. Range of Motion:
   
   • Extracapsular Imbrication/Traditional Repair: The impact on the dog's range of motion may vary based on scar tissue formation and the stability achieved.
   • Tightrope CCL: Allows the dog to maintain full range of motion while providing stability and controlling tibial thrust.
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In summary, while both methods are minimally invasive compared to other surgical options like TTA and TPLO, Tightrope CCL offers a potentially more durable and stronger stabilization method using Fiber Tape, leading to improved long-term outcomes, especially for larger dogs.