About TPLO Surgery

Ready for the Next Step?

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the signs of a cranial cruciate ligament or "ACL" tear?

  Your pet may have a CCL tear if showing any of theses signs:

  • Limping on hind leg or toe touching
  • Joint stiffness that is most recognizable after play
  • Difficulty rising from the floor or jumping
  • Clicking sound when he/she walks
  • Sitting with one hind leg out

• Is a torn "ACL" an emergency surgery?

  A cranial cruciate ligament tear is not an emergency surgery.  However, it is painful.  If your pet was limping and is now non-weight baring, there is a high chance for a meniscal tear which can be very painful for the pet.  Surgical stabilization of the knee will decrease pain, improve muscle mass and help slow the progression of osteoarthritis.  

  Without surgical intervention to stabilize the knee, you pet will continue to experience persistent pain, lameness and progression of osteoarthritis.

• Are there other surgical options?

  There are several surgical options available, however the TPLO procedure is the gold-standard for stabilization of the knee in dogs.  The prognosis is good to excellent for return to “normal” activity.   

• What is the success rate of TPLO surgery?

  90-95% of surgeries result in a successful outcome: dramatic improvement in limb function, resolution of pain and return of normal to near normal activity levels.

• What to expect after surgery?

  • For the first 72 hours after surgery, icing the incision for 5-10 minutes 2-3 times daily will provide additional local pain relief.
  • Swelling of the lower limb or “ankle” may be observed–this is normal.
  • Your pet must be strictly confined to a small area (crate or small room), and then taken out on a leash to urinate and dedicate for the first 2 weeks.  Stairs, jumping, playing and running should be strictly avoided for the first 8-12 weeks.  After two weeks, your pet may go on short leash walk for 5-10 minutes 2-3 times daily. After 4 weeks, your pet may go on short leash walks for 15-20 minutes 2-3 times daily.  After 6 weeks, you pet may go on leash walks 25-30 minutes 2-3 times daily.  
  • After 8-12 weeks, your pet can begin to gradually return to normal activity once radiographic evidence of healing has occurred. 
  • Specific instructions regarding activity restrictions, incision care, suture removal and physical therapy will be provided on the day of surgery.

• Will my pet tear the cruciate ligament or "ACL" in the other leg?

  Approximately 40-50 percent of pets that tear their ACL in one leg will go on to rupture or tear the opposite side within 1-2 years.

• What are the complications?

  The rate of complication for this procedure is low, <5-7%.  Potential complications of TPLO surgery include infection, implant failure, delayed healing and fracture.  While these complications are uncommon, it is imperative that strict exercise restrictions are enforced. 

• When will my pet be back to normal activity levels?

  Typically 8-12 weeks after surgery most pets return to normal activity levels.