Understanding TPLO Surgery in Dogs

TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) is a surgical procedure used to treat Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) rupture in dogs. The CCL is the dog equivalent of the human ACL — it stabilizes the knee joint. When it ruptures, the knee becomes unstable and painful.

What Causes CCL Rupture?

• Degeneration — the ligament weakens over time (most common)
• Acute injury — sudden trauma from running, jumping, or pivoting
• Obesity — excess weight puts stress on the ligament
• Genetics — certain breeds are predisposed

Which Dogs Are at Risk?

• Labrador Retrievers
• Golden Retrievers
• Rottweilers
• Newfoundlands
• German Shepherds
• Mastiffs
• Bulldogs

40-60% of dogs that rupture one CCL will rupture the other within 1-2 years.

Symptoms of CCL Rupture

• Sudden lameness in a hind leg
• Difficulty standing or walking
• Decreased activity
• Swelling around the knee joint
• Sitting with one leg extended ("sit sign")
• Muscle wasting in the affected leg

What Is TPLO Surgery?

TPLO changes the geometry of the knee to eliminate the need for the CCL:

• Cutting the tibia — a curved osteotomy is made in the tibial plateau
• Rotating the bone — the tibial plateau is rotated to level it
• Securing with a plate — a bone plate and screws hold the tibia in position
• Examining the meniscus — cartilage pads are checked for damage

The bone typically heals in 8-12 weeks. Once healed, the knee is stable without the CCL.

TPLO vs. Other Options

• TPLO — best for large, active dogs; excellent long-term outcomes
• Extracapsular repair — best for small dogs under 30 lbs
• TTA — similar to TPLO; for medium to large dogs
• TightRope — minimally invasive; uses a strong fiber

Cost

TPLO surgery typically costs $3,500-$7,000 per knee, depending on location and surgeon experience.

Success Rate

TPLO has a success rate of 90-95%. Most dogs return to normal or near-normal function after recovery.