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We know it can be troubling to learn your pet must undergo surgery. The veterinary professionals at Sherwood Family Pet Clinic in Sherwood, OR are here to answer some of your most common questions on TPLO Surgery.
What is TPLO?
TPLO, or Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, is a surgery used for dogs who tear their cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL. The tearing of the CCL is one of the most common knee issues in dogs and the TPLO is one of the most common surgical repair options. If the CCL is torn or damaged, it allows the tibia, or shin bone, to move forward with respect to the femur, or thigh bone. This causes instability and pain in the knee. Pets with this type of injury will not be able to walk well and are painful. This instability may lead to osteoarthritis for the pet.
Why Get TPLO Surgery?
This is a great option for those pets with injury to their CCL. The surgery will allow for knee joint stabilization and it will allow a much lower chance of having permanent joint pain and development of osteoarthritis. It is a great way to relieve your pet’s pain and allow your pet to return to an active lifestyle.
TPLO surgery changes the femur’s angle to the tibia and reduces the number of tibia shifts while your pet is walking. This surgical realignment will provide the necessary stability while your pet walks and will also reduce joint inflammation.
Recovery
It doesn’t take too long to recover from TPLO surgery. Half of the patients will walk after 24 hours and most can bear weight on the leg at the 2-week mark. Limping has generally resolved by the 10-week post-op mark, and at 4 months post-op, most pets are moving normally. By 6 months, pets are at a full range of motion and activity.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian in Sherwood, OR
If you have more questions that aren’t answered here or need a more thorough answer, contact Sherwood Family Pet Clinic today. Call us at (775) 383 6154 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.