🐾 TPLO Surgery for Cruciate Ligament Disease - Client FAQS

 

What is a cruciate ligament rupture?

The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in your dog’s knee (stifle) helps stabilise the joint.  When it tears or ruptures, the knee becomes unstable, causing pain, limping, and arthritis over time.

 

What is TPLO surgery?

TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) is a surgical procedure that changes the angle of the tibia (shin bone) to stabilise the knee without needing the ligament.  It is the most effective treatment for CCL rupture in dogs.

 

Why is a TPLO recommended instead of other treatments?

A TPLO is recommended because:

  • It provides excellent long-term stability
  • It allows earlier return to function
  • It has a high success rate
  • It reduces progression of arthritis compared to other options

 

Is surgery really necessary?

In most cases, yes. Without surgery:

  • The knee remains unstable
  • Pain and lameness persist
  • Arthritis worsens

Small dogs may sometimes be managed conservatively, but most dogs benefit significantly from surgery.

 

What happens during the TPLO procedure?

  • A curved cut is made in the tibia
  • The bone is rotated to change its angle
  • A metal plate and screws are used to hold it in place
  • The goal is to eliminate the need for the ligament

 

Is TPLO surgery safe for my dog?

TPLO is a commonly performed and generally safe procedure when done by an experienced surgeon.  As with any surgery, there are risks, but complications are relatively uncommon.

 

What are the risks or complications?

Possible (but uncommon) complications include:

  • Infection
  • Implant issues (loosening or breakage)
  • Delayed bone healing
  • Meniscal injury

Your vet will discuss these risks with you in detail.

 

How long is the recovery period?

  • Initial recovery: 6–8 weeks
  • Full recovery: ~10–12 weeks (sometimes longer)

Strict rest and controlled exercise are essential during healing.

 

When can my dog walk normally again?

  • Toe-touching often begins within a few days
  • Weight-bearing improves over 2 - 4 weeks
  • Near-normal walking typically returns by 8 - 12 weeks

 

Will my dog return to normal activity?

Most dogs return to normal or near-normal activity, including running and playing. Many regain excellent function.

 

Can the other knee rupture too?

Yes. Around 40 - 60% of dogs may eventually rupture the ligament in the other knee due to similar underlying degeneration.  Dogs less than 5 years old are more likely to rupture both ligaments compared to dogs over 8 years of age.