Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) is currently the preferred procedure for cranial cruciate rupture or instability in larger dogs. TPLO Surgery does not repair the ligament, but it changes the biomechanics of the leg such that a CCL is not needed. Although there is some evidence that TPLO Surgery is best suited for larger dogs, our surgeon will evaluate all CCL patients for the procedure.

TPLO surgery first involves examining the CCL tear using a small arthroscope to document the type of tear and to remove the torn portion. Then the medial and lateral meniscus cartilages are examined for tearing. If a tear of either meniscus is found, the damaged part of the meniscus is removed using small instrumentation while viewing through the arthroscope. Next a curved cut in the top of the tibia bone (osteotomy) to include the tibial plateau is made with a saw. The tibial plateau is then rotated along the curved osteotomy in order to change the slope of the top of the tibia according to a predetermined calculation. Next a plate and screws are inserted to hold the tibial plateau in place so the bone can heal.

After TPLO surgery, patients are confined to an airline kennel or small room for eight weeks. Radiographs are taken at 8 weeks postoperatively to confirm bone healing. At this time most dogs have mild or no lameness. Exercise in the form of leash walks can now be added, gradually increasing the distance each week. By four months after surgery, most patients have no exercise restrictions. In cases where the surgery is performed within a few weeks of the injury, most dogs return to their previous activities, the most common complication being rupture of the ligament in the opposite leg.

For a complete list of certified TPLO surgeons, review the Slocum Enterprises website.

Click here for more information on the new Tightrope procedure as a reasonable alternative to TPLO in dogs up to 100 lbs that have the tear in one leg only, as opposed to dogs with tears in both legs at the same time.