What is TPLO surgery?

TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) is a bone-cutting procedure to stabilize the knee joint in dogs with a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), similar to ACL injuries in people. The TPLO procedure is the gold-standard for the stabilization of the knee in dogs.

Why might my pet need TPLO surgery?

TPLO is recommended for dogs with a torn CCL to alleviate pain, restore joint stability, improve mobility, and slow the progression of arthritis.

How does TPLO surgery work?

TPLO surgery involves leveling the top of the tibia or the tibial plateau. The top of the tibia is cut and then stabilized using a specialized locking TPLO plate and screws. By leveling the tibial plateau, the surgery reduces stress on the knee and restores normal movement, effectively eliminating the need for the damaged cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). This process improves stability and mobility for your pet.

Is TPLO surgery right for my dog?

TPLO surgery is the gold standard for stabilizing the dog’s knee when a CCL is torn. Deciding if it’s the right choice involves evaluating your dog’s specific condition, overall health, and your financial circumstances. To understand if TPLO is suitable for your pet and how it fits into your budget, click here to learn more.

What makes Dr. Colby Burns' care unique?

Dr. Colby Burns provides expert TPLO surgery with a compassionate touch. Her work is supported by the nearly 60 years of excellence at Tampa Bay Vets and is delivered with the highest standards of AAHA accreditation. Dr. Burns ensures top-quality treatment and personalized care at any of our seven convenient locations.

Does my pet need to be a patient of Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals for the TPLO procedure?

No, your pet does not need to be a patient of Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals to undergo TPLO surgery. We welcome all pets and their owners, regardless of whether you are a current client. If you have a primary care veterinarian you are comfortable with, rest assured that there is no obligation to switch to our practice. After the procedure, you are free to continue your pet’s care with your regular vet. We will coordinate with your veterinarian to ensure seamless communication and follow-up care for your pet.

Do I need a referral?

No referral is needed to consult with one of our veterinarians. Contact us, and we’ll coordinate with your primary vet if we have any questions.

How do I schedule a consultation?

You can easily schedule a consultation online or get in touch with us directly by requesting an appointment. Simply submit your desired date and location and we’ll contact you soon to confirm. For immediate scheduling, please contact your nearest Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals location to set up an appointment.

About Us

About Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals

At Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals, we proudly uphold a tradition of excellence and compassionate care that has guided us for nearly 60 years. As a locally-owned veterinary practice with eight locations, we are dedicated to serving the Tampa Bay community with integrity and personalized attention.

Our team includes veterinarians who are board-certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) in canine and feline practice, ensuring the highest standards of care.Every location is committed to providing exceptional veterinary services, reflecting our deep care for both our patients and the community we serve.

Let Dr. Burns and our team restore your pet’s mobility and joy with TPLO surgery. Click below to schedule your consultation!

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The Tampa Bay Vets Difference

At Tampa Bay Vets, we offer more than just surgery. We provide a personalized, compassionate experience guided by AAHA-accredited standards. Our dedicated team is committed to supporting you and your pet through every step of the journey, from initial consultation to recovery. This is why we stand out as the best choice for your pet’s TPLO procedure:

Nearly 60 Years of Excellence

Benefit from our long-standing tradition of high-quality care and expertise.

AAHA-Accredited Care

Rest assured, knowing our hospitals adhere to rigorous AAHA standards for exceptional care.

7 Convenient Locations

Choose from seven locations around Tampa Bay, making it easy and convenient for you and your pet.

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FAQ's Answered By Our Veterinarians

What is TPLO surgery?
TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) is a bone-cutting procedure to stabilize the knee joint in dogs with a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), similar to ACL injuries in people. The TPLO procedure is the gold-standard for the stabilization of the knee in dogs.
Why might my pet need TPLO surgery?
TPLO is recommended for dogs with a torn CCL to alleviate pain, restore joint stability, improve mobility, and slow the progression of arthritis.
How does TPLO surgery work?
TPLO surgery involves leveling the top of the tibia or the tibial plateau. The top of the tibia is cut and then stabilized using a specialized locking TPLO plate and screws. By leveling the tibial plateau, the surgery reduces stress on the knee and restores normal movement, effectively eliminating the need for the damaged cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). This process improves stability and mobility for your pet.
Is TPLO surgery right for my dog?
TPLO surgery is the gold standard for stabilizing the dog’s knee when a CCL is torn. Deciding if it’s the right choice involves evaluating your dog’s specific condition, overall health, and your financial circumstances. To understand if TPLO is suitable for your pet and how it fits into your budget, click here to learn more.
What makes Dr. Colby Burns' care unique?
Dr. Colby Burns provides expert TPLO surgery with a compassionate touch. Her work is supported by the nearly 60 years of excellence at Tampa Bay Vets and is delivered with the highest standards of AAHA accreditation. Dr. Burns ensures top-quality treatment and personalized care at any of our seven convenient locations.
Does my pet need to be a patient of Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals for the TPLO procedure?
No, your pet does not need to be a patient of Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals to undergo TPLO surgery. We welcome all pets and their owners, regardless of whether you are a current client. If you have a primary care veterinarian you are comfortable with, rest assured that there is no obligation to switch to our practice. After the procedure, you are free to continue your pet’s care with your regular vet. We will coordinate with your veterinarian to ensure seamless communication and follow-up care for your pet.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed to consult with one of our veterinarians. Contact us, and we’ll coordinate with your primary vet if we have any questions.
How do I schedule a consultation?
You can easily schedule a consultation online or get in touch with us directly by requesting an appointment. Simply submit your desired date and location and we’ll contact you soon to confirm. For immediate scheduling, please contact your nearest Tampa Bay Animal Hospitals location to set up an appointment.

More FAQs

Dr. Burns is amazing! I can’t say enough good things about her. If you need a specialized and/or complicated surgical procedure for your pet, she’s the only one I would trust.

Alanna Clark

Dr. Burns has done surgeries on several of our foster dogs. She is someone I would recommend and will use for my own dogs if ever needed. All of our fosters have had excellent outcomes!

Holly Garemore

Dr.Burns is the absolute best. She performed a TPLO and medial patella luxation correction surgery on our sweet dog. We recently adopted this dog and have fallen in love with him. We rested easy knowing he was the hands of such a talented surgeon. Dr. Burns took time out of her day to call me with a update on our pups condition. Her release instructions were detailed and left no question unanswered. I highly would highly recommend Dr.Burns.

Tara Lee

Dr. Burns has performed surgery on three of our German Shepherds over the last few years. She gave us the priceless gift of time to spend with our Dazzle when she was diagnosed with cancer. Dr. Burns performed a procedure for our boy so we that can look forward to many years together without the worry of “bloat”. Her most recent miracle came in the form of lifesaving surgery for a rescue girl who came to us critically ill after swallowing a piece of fabric. We can’t thank Dr Burns enough for her excellent surgical skills and compassionate care of our family of dogs! Nora and Stephen Bednarski.

Nora Robbins

Dr. Burns is one of the most caring veterinarian surgeons you can find. She cares for your pet like it was her own, provides to you an honest opinion on the best route to care for your pet and was fair with her prices. The love and compassion that she gave towards “Scout”, my baby – exceeded my expectations. She performed a complicated procedure on my dog for his hip while some other surgeons didn’t want to. I personally recommend Dr. Burns to everyone who asks me about a good surgeon. My newest addition is in need of a gastropexy but, I know exactly where and who to go to…Dr. Burns. Thank you so much for all you do.

Meghan Bickerton

I had the pleasure of meeting Dr Colby Burns when i started working at my clinic last year. She did surgery on my baby Maggie. 8 year old Pitbull mix . She had cancer. Her first surgery was in November 2017, Her last surgery was May of 2018 she amputated her back right leg . She was very compassionate and caring with my baby girl. I highly recommend her. Dr Burns gave us 6 extra months of love and happiness!!

Courtney Gorman

Testimonials

Our clients’ stories reflect the dedication and compassion we bring to every pet’s care. From life-changing TPLO surgeries to seamless recoveries, these testimonials showcase how Dr. Burns and our team make a difference in the lives of pets and their families every day

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