Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy

Before any repair of the cruciate can be made, the torn aspect of the ligament and any meniscus tear must be removed. These cause pain in the joint and can prevent a fast recovery. With the TPLO we will use arthroscopy to visualize and treat the affected meniscus and cruciate. Once the joint is treated, the surgeon uses measurements made on pre-op radiographs to make a curved cut in the tibia. From there the surgeon will rotate the joint surface to obtain the correct angle and place a plate and six screws to hold the bone in place. Large-breed dogs sometimes require a larger plate with eight screws to fit the larger bone.

The cut will take 6 to 8 weeks to heal. Post-operative care will require strict rest until the bone has healed (2 months) and a regime of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory. After the bone has healed radiographs will be taken to ensure proper bone healing. Physical therapy is recommended after this 2 months rest period to build up the muscles in the leg.