Frequently Asked Questions

A Brief History of TPLO Surgery

TPLO surgery was developed in the early 1990s by veterinary surgeon Dr. Barclay Slocum. It was created as a solution for dogs suffering from a torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), especially in large or active breeds. Traditional ligament repair methods often didn’t provide lasting stability, so Dr. Slocum’s innovation of reshaping the tibial plateau offered a more effective and long-term solution. Since then, TPLO has become the gold standard for treating CCL injuries in dogs, with thousands of successful surgeries performed worldwide.

What is a Ruptured Cranial Cruciate Ligament?

The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is a structure in your dog’s knee joint that helps prevent excessive motion between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone). The CCL may become injured either from trauma or due to the dog’s natural leg conformation, resulting in a sudden or gradual tear of the ligament. A torn CCL causes the knee joint to become unstable, leading to joint pain, inflammation, and hind leg lameness. This can initiate the development of arthritis and may also damage another structure in the knee called the meniscus.

This initiates the development of arthritis and may damage another structure in the knee called meniscus.

How is the TPLO Surgery Performed?

The procedure may be performed by veterinary surgeons who have completed the TPLO training course. The surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia and begins with an incision over the knee to access the tibia (shin bone) and the knee joint. The top of the tibia, called the tibial plateau, is then carefully cut and rotated to a new angle. This adjustment helps stabilize the knee joint and reduces stress on the torn ligament. The reshaped tibia is secured in place with a metal plate and screws to ensure proper healing and stability. Once the procedure is complete, the incision is closed, and the knee is bandaged for support during recovery.

Can medication be used to treat a ruptured CCL?

Anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by your veterinarian may help decrease pain and inflammation in the knee joint. Strict cage rest and exercise restriction may allow your dog’s body to form scar tissue in an effort to increase the stability of the knee. However, small breed dogs (under 4 kg) are typically more responsive to medical management of a ruptured CCL. For medium to large breed dogs with a ruptured CCL, especially active dogs or those with other orthopedic problems, surgical treatment is recommended.

Can any size of dog have TPLO surgery?

TPLO surgery is primarily recommended for medium to large or giant breed dogs, but it can also be suitable for smaller breeds, depending on their individual circumstances. The procedure is typically limited by the size of the TPLO bone plate used for stabilization. Most dogs weighing over 4 kg are eligible for TPLO surgery, though factors such as the dog’s overall health, activity level, and the extent of the ligament injury also play a role in determining eligibility. You can easily book in a consult with us first to assess whether TPLO is the best option for your dog.

What is the expected outcome for my dog?

Dogs who have had TPLO surgery are typically bearing some weight on their operated leg within 3 to 5 days following surgery. Your dog will need to have their exercise specifically restricted while the bone is healing, usually for 8 to 12 weeks. Physical therapy, as well as a gradual increase in on-leash activity, will be permitted, depending on how your dog is recovering. In general, the TPLO procedure for dogs with CCL rupture is associated with a very good early return to leg use, and some research suggests that there is less leg muscle loss and slower progression of knee arthritis following this procedure.

TPLO Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation

Keep the bandage clean and dry, and check your dog’s toes twice a day for swelling or irritation. You can remove the bandage after three days, or sooner if it gets dirty or bothers your dog.

Once the bandage is off, inspect the incision twice daily for signs of redness, swelling, or pain, and contact us if any occur. We will schedule an appointment 14 days after surgery for suture removal and a check-up.

For the first 10-12 weeks, restrict your dog’s activity to allow for healing. Start with slow, short walks (5 minutes) on a leash. Gradually increase walk frequency or duration every 3-4 days, depending on your dog’s comfort. Avoid running, jumping, or rough play during this period.

After four weeks, you can start using a long leash (3-5 meters) for walks. If your dog is comfortable, continue to increase walk time and distance every 3-4 days.

At 6-8 weeks, we’ll schedule a recheck and X-rays to assess healing. If healing is progressing well, you can begin off-leash exercise, starting with 5 minutes and increasing every 3-4 days as long as your dog is comfortable. Avoid jumping and rough play.

A final exam and X-rays at 10-12 weeks will confirm full healing, after which we’ll provide instructions for returning your dog to normal activity.

Please note this Postoperative care plan is general advice and rehabilitation will be slightly different for each dog.

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Why Choose Us For TPLO Surgery?

Experience You Can Trust

With 27 years of veterinary experience and over 1,500 TPLO surgeries performed, Dr. Jas Pandher and his team offer experience you can trust. His passion for providing the highest standard of care and his extensive surgical knowledge ensure that your pet is in capable hands throughout their journey to recovery. Dr. Jas and the team bring skill, precision, and compassion to every surgery, ensuring the highest quality care for your dog.

Comprehensive Care and Support

We understand that TPLO surgery is a significant decision for pet owners. From initial consultation to post-operative care, our team is with you every step of the way, offering tailored recovery plans and ongoing support to ensure your dog’s swift and comfortable recovery.

Proven Results, Dedicated Service

Our clinic prides itself on a track record of successful outcomes, with numerous dogs regaining their mobility and quality of life through our TPLO surgeries. We’re dedicated to delivering results that speak for themselves, making us the trusted choice for pet owners seeking the best care possible.

Client Testimonials

It’s been a year exactly since my dog had TPLO. I cant thank Dr Jas enough as well as the amazing vet Nurses for looking after my dog! He is running the fastest I’ve ever seen. Thank you for your ethical practice.

Jesi C.k – Google Maps Review

Very happy with the service and care at this clinic! My dog had a severe surgery but Dr Jas was extremely helpful and my puppy was fit and healthy in no time! Highly recommend 👍

Mehar S – Google Maps Review

I’m incredibly grateful for TPLO Vet Melbourne. Their compassionate staff, state-of-the-art facility, and Dr. Jas, made my dog’s TPLO surgery a success. The follow-up care was exceptional, and my dog is now enjoying a full recovery. Highly recommended!

Shelly M – Google Maps Review