In the right patients, this technique provides support until scar tissue forms which creates permanent stabilisation of the joint. It is highly successful in smaller dogs (typically less than 10 kg or about 22 lbs) or less active medium-sized dogs.
It is essential the dog is rested postoperatively, because too much activity could lead to failure of the implant. Likewise if the patient is too large or heavy then the suture may slacken or snap, and lameness recur.
Another potential complication is failing to identify a torn meniscus. If this is not trimmed back the flap of cartilage can cause pain and discomfort so the dog remains lame despite a successful stabilization of the joint.
There are many different procedures which stabilize a CCL rupture, but these are all more invasive and/or involve metal implants or remodelling the bone. Accordingly, these are more complex and almost certainly referral to a specialist surgeon is required.