Orthopedic Surgery

What does TPLO stand for?

• Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy

What are the signs my dog may have Canine Cruciate Disease?

• lameness
• swelling
• decreased range in motion
• decreased muscle mass
• hesitation when jumping into the car or on a sofa
• decreased activity

How does TPLO surgery compare to other surgery techniques?

• quicker recovery time
• better range of motion of the joint
• less risk of arthritis

What size dogs is best suited for TPLO?

TPLO is recommended for medium, large or giant dog breeds. Most dogs greater than 20 Kg or 45 pounds that are very active, would be best suited for a TPLO.

What is the expected outcome for after TPLO?

Dogs who have had TPLO surgery usuall‎If your dog has an abnormal sit, as shown in this image, you may want to discuss the possibility of cruciate disease with your veterinarian.y start bearing some weight within 5 days following surgery. You will need to follow your veterinarians advice regarding exercise during healing for approximately 12 weeks. In general, the TPLO procedure allows for basic use of the leg in about 14 days.

What are the possible complications from TPLO?

TPLO is a major surgery and like any surgical procedure, complications can happen. Published reports suggest the complication rates may be somewhat higher than with a less invasive surgery. Most complications are minor in nature in that they can be resolved without additional surgery and have an ultimately successful outcome. Included in this category would be things like infections and inflammation of the patellar tendon. More major complications, including failure of plates or screws and fracture of the tibia or fibula, are uncommon. The development of bone cancer many months or years later in the area of the surgery has been noted in a small number of TPLO dogs. The possible connection of this cancer with the procedure is highly controversial as the top portion of the tibia is a common location for bone cancer in the dog even when no surgery or cruciate problem is a factor. Tears of the meniscal cartilage in the stifle are a common consequence of an unstable joint. Such tears may exist at the time of surgery and they can develop in up to 11% of patients after surgery. That’s true in dogs and humans regardless of what kind of surgery they undergo. Typically, these patients do well for weeks or months after surgery before suddenly becoming lame again.