Study flags construct failure risks after modified CCWO in dogs

Modified cranial closing wedge ostectomy may offer acceptable outcomes for dogs with cranial cruciate ligament disease, but a new retrospective study suggests construct failure remains a meaningful risk, especially around implant choice and positioning. In 169 stifles treated with unilateral modified cranial closing wedge ostectomy, investigators from the Royal Veterinary College reported a 12% major complication rate and examined factors linked to fixation failure. The paper was published online February 25, 2026, in the Journal of Small Animal Practice. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Why it matters: For veterinary surgeons, the study adds practical detail to a procedure that’s used less commonly than TPLO, but remains important in selected dogs, particularly those with excessive tibial plateau angles. Prior literature has suggested CCWO can achieve predictable tibial plateau correction overall, while newer reports have also highlighted that construct failure, though uncommon, can require revision surgery. This latest series helps sharpen attention on technical variables such as plate selection and plate positioning, which could influence postoperative stability and complication risk. (sciencedirect.com)

What to watch: Watch for whether follow-up studies translate these retrospective findings into clearer implant-selection guidelines or prospective recommendations for reducing failure risk. (thieme-connect.de)