What is TPLO surgery? Recovery and cost

TPLO surgery, or Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, is a common orthopedic procedure used to treat cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture in dogs.

This condition, similar to an ACL injury in humans, is one of the leading causes of hind limb lameness in dogs, particularly in active or large-breed animals. When the CCL ruptures, it destabilizes the knee joint, leading to pain, inflammation, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected limb. TPLO is designed to address this instability not by replacing the torn ligament, but by altering the biomechanics of the knee itself.

The procedure involves making a curved cut in the tibia (the shin bone) and rotating the tibial plateau to a more horizontal position. This change neutralizes the forces in the knee that cause the femur to slide backward when the dog walks or bears weight, thereby eliminating the need for the ligament itself to resist that force.

A bone plate and screws are used to secure the repositioned bone, allowing it to heal in its new configuration over several weeks.

TPLO has become one of the preferred methods for treating cruciate ligament injuries in dogs because it often results in a faster return to function and greater long-term joint stability compared to other techniques like lateral suture stabilization. The success rate is high, and most dogs regain near-normal use of the limb, provided that post-operative care is carefully followed.

Recovery from TPLO surgery requires strict rest for the first few weeks, followed by a gradual reintroduction of activity under veterinary supervision. Pain management, physical therapy, and regular checkups are essential to ensure proper healing. Most dogs begin to bear weight on the leg within a few days after surgery, but full bone healing typically takes around 8 to 12 weeks.

During this period, it's crucial to prevent the dog from running, jumping, or slipping, as these activities could disrupt the healing process.

The cost of TPLO surgery varies depending on location, the experience of the surgeon, and whether complications arise. In the United States, the procedure usually ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, including pre-operative imaging, anesthesia, surgical fees, post-operative medications, and follow-up visits. While the cost may seem high, many pet owners find the investment worthwhile due to the significant improvement in their dog’s quality of life and mobility.

Ultimately, TPLO offers a reliable solution for a common orthopedic problem in dogs. With appropriate surgical technique and diligent aftercare, it can restore pain-free function and allow dogs to return to their normal activities.

References:

Slocum, B., & Slocum, T. D. (1993). Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy for cranial cruciate ligament rupture in the canine. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 23(4), 777–795.Cook, J. L., Luther, J. K., Beetem, J., Karnes, J., & Cook, C. R. (2010). Clinical comparison of a novel extracapsular stabilization procedure and tibial plateau leveling osteotomy for treatment of cranial cruciate ligament disease in dogs. Veterinary Surgery, 39(3), 315–323.

About the autor

Felipe Garofallo is a veterinarian in Brazil, specialized in orthopedic and neurosurgical care for dogs and cats.

He is also the founder of Ortho for Pets – Veterinary Orthopedics and Specialties.