Bilateral Successive Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture Treated by Extracapsular Stabilization Surgery in a Pet Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

A 4.1 kg, 4-month-old female pet rabbit was presented twice within a 4 month period for cranial cruciate ligament rupture of its right, then left stifle joint. Stifle joint stabilization was performed with an extracapsular technique after both events. Immediately after stabilization, the rabbit regained normal use of the injured limbs. The animal underwent a 3 month rehabilitation program intended to increase muscle strength. Twenty-four months after the procedures were performed the rabbit shows no signs of discomfort and has normal use of both rear legs.