When your dog suffers from a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture, one of the most effective ways to restore mobility and prevent long-term joint degeneration is through corrective surgery. Among several techniques available, PGR osteotomy (Proximal Gleno-Radial Osteotomy) stands out as an advanced approach for modifying knee biomechanics. But what exactly is PGR surgery, and when should it be considered?
Understanding PGR Osteotomy: What Does It Involve?
PGR (Proximal Gleno-Radial Osteotomy) is a surgical technique developed to treat dogs with ruptured cranial cruciate ligaments. Unlike procedures that attempt to replace the ligament, such as extra-capsular repairs, PGR realigns the forces within the stifle (knee) joint to eliminate the need for a functional CCL.
In essence, the procedure involves cutting and rotating the proximal part of the tibia to change the slope of the tibial plateau. This modification eliminates the forward thrust of the femur over the tibia that normally requires the CCL to stabilize. As a result, PGR provides dynamic stabilization without the need for prosthetic ligaments.
When Is PGR Surgery Recommended for Dogs?
Cranial cruciate ligament injuries are among the most common orthopedic issues in dogs, particularly in active, overweight, or aging animals. Left untreated, a CCL rupture leads to progressive joint instability, pain, cartilage wear, and osteoarthritis.
PGR is often chosen when:
- The dog is medium to large breed with high activity levels
- There is excessive tibial plateau angle (TPA) contributing to instability
- Other techniques like TPLO or TTA are contraindicated or not ideal
- The dog has early degenerative joint disease where immediate mechanical correction is preferred
By realigning the tibial plateau mechanically, PGR can significantly reduce pain and halt further joint damage—even in complex cases where the medial meniscus is involved.
What Are the Advantages of PGR Compared to Other CCL Techniques?
While techniques like TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) and TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement) are also widely used for CCL injuries, PGR offers a few specific benefits:
🔹 Less bone removal: PGR reshapes rather than resects major segments of bone
🔹 Precise correction of tibial slope, especially useful in dogs with extremely steep angles
🔹 Simpler implant design, leading to fewer implant-related complications
🔹 Excellent outcomes in early to moderate osteoarthritis cases
That said, surgeon skill and case selection are crucial. PGR requires careful preoperative planning, including digital radiographs and often CT imaging to determine the optimal correction angle.
Why Use XCVET PGR Implants and Surgical Kits?
When performing such a precision-sensitive procedure, the quality of implants and instruments is critical. XCVET offers a complete PGR surgical solution, engineered for safety, reliability, and ease of use in veterinary practice.
🛠️ What’s Included in the XCVET PGR System?
- Titanium PGR locking plates with anatomic curve and pre-defined angles
- Multi-angle locking screws (2.7mm, 3.5mm)
- Custom-designed osteotomy jigs and guides
- Sterile-packed surgical drills and saw blades
- Instrument set with depth gauges, drill guides, and plate holders
XCVET’s implants are made from medical-grade titanium alloy, offering high strength and biocompatibility, while the instrument sets ensure accurate and safe bone manipulation during surgery.
Final Thoughts — Is PGR the Right Choice for Your Dog?
If your dog is limping, showing signs of hind limb weakness, or has been diagnosed with a CCL rupture, consult your veterinary surgeon to explore all surgical options. PGR osteotomy offers an advanced, reliable solution, especially when paired with XCVET’s premium implant kits.
Whether you're a veterinarian looking for top-tier instrumentation or a pet owner wanting the best for your furry friend, PGR with XCVET gives your dog the chance to run again—stronger and pain-free.
📩 Learn more about our PGR implant and instrument system at https://xcvet.com or email us at marketing@xcvet.com
