A tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) is a procedure for the management of anterior cruciate disease in dogs. It is suitable for partial and complete tears of the anterior cruciate ligament. It involves changing the angles of the joint so it does not require the cruciate ligament. This change in angle is achieved by cutting the tibia, changing their relative position and stabilising it with a plate and screws.
TIBIAL PLATEAU LEVELING OSTEOTOMY (TPLO) - SURGERY OVERVIEW
What is a TPLO?
What are the benefits?
- Considered the gold standard worldwide for management of cruciate disease
- Rapid return to function
- Useful in partial and compete tears
- Applicable to almost all sizes of patient
What are the risks of surgery?
All surgery carries a risk of complications. In certain cases these complications mat require further surgical procedures to manage.
Common Complications (1-10%):
- General anaesthesia
- Wound infection
- Plate infection
- Meniscal tear
- Patella tendinitis
Rare Complications (<1%):
- Bone breakage
- Plate breakage
- Patella luxation
What aftercare is required?
After surgery the patient will require a period of recovery and rehabilitation. This will involve strict cage confinement and a program of gradual, controlled return to exercise. The recovery period is approximately twelve weeks, with the first six to eight weeks being the most intensive. Eight weeks after the surgery an x-ray is required to check on the progress of bone healing.