TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy)

At MEVV, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality veterinary care for your pets. If your dog is suffering from a torn ACL or knee instability, we are now offering TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy) surgery in-house.

Dr. Peter can use this advanced technique to ensure a swift recovery, so your pet can return to their active, happy life as soon as possible. With compassionate care, state-of-the-art technology, and a commitment to your pet’s health, we’re here to support you every step of the way. For non-routine cases, we may still recommend either referral to a specialist clinic or scheduling a mobile specialist to visit MEVV to perform the surgery. 

Costs vary, but you can expect a TPLO to cost approximately $4500-5000 (including the surgery, day in hospital, post-op medications, follow-up checks, and repeat x-rays 8 weeks after the surgery). 

On the day of your dog's Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery, you can expect several key events as the procedure is prepared, carried out, and followed through with post-surgical care. Here’s a general outline of what will happen during the day:

Before Surgery

1. Pre-Surgical Instructions:

   • Fasting: Your dog will need to fast for several hours before surgery (usually 12 hours), as is standard for anaesthesia. This means no food or water during that time.
   • Arrival at the Clinic: You will be asked to bring your dog to the clinic in the morning usually between 8 and 9am. 
   • Pre-Surgical Assessment: The veterinary team will perform a quick assessment of your dog’s health to ensure they are fit for surgery. This often includes:
     • Blood work: To check organ function and overall health.
     • Physical exam: To evaluate your dog’s overall condition, including heart rate and respiratory function.
     • X-rays: If not already done, the veterinarian may take pre-surgical X-rays to assess the knee joint and plan the surgery.
     • Sedation: Your dog may be given a mild sedative to help them relax before the procedure.

2. Anaesthesia Preparation:

   • The veterinary team will place an intravenous (IV) catheter into a vein (usually in one of the front legs), which will be used to administer fluids and anaesthesia.
   • Induction of Anaesthesia: Anaesthesia is induced using an injection, which will put your dog into a deep sleep.
   • Monitoring Equipment: Your dog will be connected to monitoring equipment to measure heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and temperature throughout the surgery.

During Surgery

• Incision and Exposure: The surgeon will make an incision over the knee area and expose the joint.
• Surgical Process: The procedure involves cutting the tibia and realigning the tibial plateau, followed by stabilizing the bone with a plate and screws.
• Duration: The surgery typically takes between 1 to 2.5 hours, depending on the complexity and size of the dog.
• Ongoing Monitoring: During the surgery, the veterinary team will continuously monitor your dog's vital signs to ensure safety.

Post-Surgery

1. Recovery from Anaesthesia:

   • After the procedure is completed, your dog will be moved to a recovery area where they will gradually wake up from anaesthesia.
   • It is common for dogs to be groggy or confused when they first wake up. The veterinary team will monitor your dog closely to ensure there are no immediate complications.

2. Pain Management:

   • Pain relief medications will be administered to ensure your dog is comfortable.
   • Anti-inflammatory drugs and other pain management protocols are typically used post-surgery to control swelling and pain.

3. Bandages and Wound Care:

   • The surgical site will be cleaned and covered with a sterile bandage. In some cases, your dog may have a drainage tube if there’s significant swelling or fluid buildup.
   • The veterinary team will explain how to care for the surgical site and when to bring your dog back for follow-up care.

4. Hospital Stay:

   • Most dogs are allowed to go home the same day, but they will require observation and follow-up care once discharged.

At Home After Surgery

• Post-Surgery Instructions: You will be given detailed instructions on post-surgery care, including:
  • Medication: Pain medications, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatories to manage pain and prevent infection.
  • Rest: Strict rest and limited activity for several weeks to allow the bone to heal.
  • Follow-up Appointments: You'll need to return for a follow-up visit to check the healing progress (usually 4 days after surgery, then 10-14 days after surgery, and finally repeat x-rays 8 weeks after surgery).
  • Physical Therapy: You will be advised on rehabilitation exercises to help your dog regain strength and mobility after surgery. Controlled physical therapy is essential for recovery.

Things to Expect Emotionally:

• Initial Concern: It’s natural to feel anxious about the surgery, but rest assured that TPLO surgery is a common and well-understood procedure that often results in very good outcomes.
• Post-Surgical Care: It can be challenging to keep your dog calm and immobile during recovery, but following the vet’s instructions carefully will help ensure a smooth recovery. Sedatives may also be dispensed.

Key Takeaways:

• Your dog will be under anaesthesia for the surgery and closely monitored throughout.
• The surgery itself typically takes a few hours, and recovery from anaesthesia takes time.
• Pain management will be provided, and you’ll be given aftercare instructions to ensure a successful recovery.
• Post-surgical care is essential for a successful recovery, including rest, medication, and follow-up visits.

While it may be nerve-wracking, TPLO is a highly effective procedure for treating ACL injuries, and with proper care, your dog will have a good chance of returning to normal activities after recovery.