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TPLO in dogs

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TPLO dogs tibial plateau leveling osteotomy postoperative care complications veterinary hospital

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dog TPLO

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https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cranial-cruciate-liga…

TPLO means tibial plateau leveling osteotomy. It is a common orthopedic operation for dogs with a torn or unstable cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), which is similar to an ACL injury in people.

What the surgery does

Rather than replacing the torn ligament, the surgeon changes the angle of the upper tibia so the knee is more stable during weight-bearing:
  1. A curved cut is made in the top of the tibia.
  2. The tibial plateau is rotated to a flatter angle.
  3. A bone plate and screws hold it in position while the bone heals.
This reduces the forward sliding of the tibia that normally occurs after a CCL rupture. The VCA procedure overview describes the rotation and plate fixation.

Typical recovery

Recovery plans vary by surgeon and dog, but generally include:
  • First 8-12 weeks: strict controlled activity, short leash walks only, no jumping, stairs, running, or rough play.
  • About 8 weeks: recheck examination and radiographs to assess bone healing before activity is advanced.
  • Several months: gradual return to normal activity, often with rehabilitation exercises if recommended.
  • Many dogs start using the leg early, but feeling better does not mean the bone is fully healed. Veterinary Partner's recovery guidance emphasizes controlled activity until imaging confirms sufficient healing.

Potential complications

TPLO is commonly successful, but risks include:
  • Incision irritation, seroma, or infection
  • Plate or screw loosening/breakage
  • Tibial fracture
  • Delayed bone healing
  • Ongoing lameness or a later meniscal tear
Contact the surgeon promptly if your dog suddenly stops bearing weight after improving, develops increasing swelling, redness or discharge at the incision, fever, marked pain, or persistent licking/chewing at the wound.
Give every medication exactly as prescribed and follow your orthopedic surgeon's discharge instructions over any general online timeline.
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