Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) Surgery
If your dog is suffering from a torn ACL, it may require a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO). This surgical procedure is performed to stabilise the knee joint and decrease the pain associated with the injury.
The TPLO surgery involves repositioning the tibia, or shinbone. This helps to level off the top of the tibia so it no longer rubs against the femur or thigh bone. Metal plates and screws are then used to hold the tibia in place until it heals. TPLO surgery is a very effective treatment for dogs with ACL injuries and can help them to return to their normal activity level.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy in Dogs
Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) is a surgical procedure used to treat dogs with torn anterior cruciate ligaments (ACL). The ACL is one of the major stabilising ligaments in the knee joint, and when it is torn, it can cause pain and instability. TPLO surgery is a very effective treatment for dogs with ACL injuries and can help them to return to their normal activity level. If you are considering this surgery for your dog, be sure to discuss it with your veterinarian to see if it is the best option for your pet.
Benefits of Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy for Dogs
There are many benefits of TPLO surgery, including improved joint stability, decreased pain, and restored function. In addition, TPLO surgery can help to prevent further damage to the joint and improve the long-term health of the dog’s knees.
Some of the benefits of TPLO surgery include:
Improved joint stability:
The tibia is one of the bones that make up the knee joint. For the knee joint to work properly, the tibia must be level with the femur (thighbone).
When the tibia is not level with the femur, it can cause instability in the joint and pain. TPLO surgery helps to level the tibia and improve joint stability.
Decreased pain:
One of the main reasons that dogs undergo TPLO surgery is to alleviate pain. When the tibia is not level with the femur, it puts extra strain on the ligaments and muscles around the knee joint. This can cause pain and inflammation. TPLO surgery helps to take the pressure off these tissues and relieve pain.
Restored function:
When the tibia is not level with the femur, it can limit a dog’s range of motion and ability to walk properly. TPLO surgery helps to restore normal function by leveling the tibia and improving joint stability.
Prevention of further damage:
When the tibia is not level with the femur, it can cause further damage to the joint. TPLO surgery helps to prevent this by leveling the tibia and improving joint stability. The improved long-term health of the dog’s knees: TPLO surgery can help to improve the long-term health of a dog’s knees by preventing further damage to the joint and improving joint stability.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy Recovery
Most dogs will need to stay in our vet hospital for 3-5 days after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) surgery. They will then need to rest at home for 4-6 weeks. During this time, they will need to take it easy and not put too much weight on their leg.
Our specialist veterinary surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to best care for your dog during its recovery. Following these instructions carefully will help your dog heal properly and avoid any complications.
TPLO Surgery Cost
The cost of tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) surgery can vary depending on the severity of the injury, the size, and breed of your pet along with other factors that need to be accounted for in your pet’s individual circumstances.
Before the surgery, be sure to discuss the cost with our team to know exactly the costs for your pet’s needs without any surprises.
TPLO for Cats
In cats, TPLO is considered to be the gold standard treatment for ACL injuries. It has a high success rate and can provide long-term relief from lameness. The procedure involves making an incision in the tibia (shinbone) and cutting through the bone to level the joint surface. This helps to stabilise the joint and can provide significant pain relief.
TPLO is a major surgery and requires a skilled surgeon. It can also be an expensive procedure, so it is important to consider all of your options before deciding on this course of treatment.
If your cat has suffered an ACL injury, Dr Leo and the team at Plus One Vet can help to evaluate if TPLO surgery is right for your beloved cat.
TPLO Surgery in Brisbane
Plus One Vet is the best place to get TPLO surgery in Brisbane because we have a team of experienced veterinarians who are dedicated to providing quality care for your pet. Plus One Vet also offers a variety of surgical and medical services from general checkups, pet dental, and vaccinations through to pet surgery & Desexing so you can get all the care your pet needs in one place.
Plus One Vet also has a state-of-the-art surgical facility with the latest diagnostic imaging equipment and technology. This ensures that your pet receives the best possible care during their surgery. Our aim is to ensure all your specialist surgical needs can be handled at our practice. If you are considering TPLO surgery for your dog or cat, contact our expert team today.
Dr Leo Wong
Veterinary Surgeon
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy FAQs
Here are some of the more frequently asked questions about TPLO surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prognosis for dogs who have had tibial plateau leveling osteotomy?
The prognosis for dogs who have had tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) surgery is generally very good. Most dogs recover well from the surgery and are able to return to their normal activity level.
However, it is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions during the recovery period. This will help your dog heal properly and avoid any complications.
Are there any alternatives to tibial plateau leveling osteotomy?
There are a few alternatives to tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) surgery, but this procedure is generally considered the best option for dogs with torn ACLs. Alternative procedures include extracapsular repair and Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA).
Discuss all the options with your veterinarian before choosing the best one for your dog.
Can Cats have TPLO surgery?
Yes, Both Cats & Dogs can receive Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery to repair an ACL injury.
Is TPLO Surgery Urgent?
While your pet can go without this surgery it will leave your dog living with pain, which can lead to worsening arthritis and further damage in the future. Like any veterinary procedure the earlier it is done the better off your pet will be.
