TPLO Consultation for Canine Cruciate Ligament Injuries
A torn cranial cruciate ligament can make a dog suddenly lame or cause a more gradual pattern of stiffness, difficulty rising, and reduced activity. Orthopedic assessment helps determine whether the knee is the source and which management choices fit the patient.
TPLO changes the mechanics of the knee to improve stability after cruciate injury, but it is not the right choice for every dog. Candidacy is determined through surgical consultation, examination, imaging, and review of overall health and recovery needs.
Open daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Understanding Cruciate Ligament Disease
The cranial cruciate ligament helps stabilize the canine knee. Injury or progressive degeneration can produce pain, instability, inflammation, and arthritis, with signs ranging from intermittent toe-touching to an inability to bear normal weight.
Meniscal injury may occur alongside cruciate disease, and the opposite knee can also be at risk over time. A careful orthopedic examination and appropriate imaging help define the problem before treatment is chosen.
How TPLO Is Considered
A surgical consultation reviews your dog's size, age, activity, knee stability, imaging, other orthopedic concerns, medical health, and your ability to manage recovery. TPLO may be recommended for selected patients, but consultation does not guarantee candidacy.
Selected advanced orthopedic and surgical cases are managed in collaboration with Dr. Hani M. Korani, DVM, DACVS-SA. This collaboration supports specialist-level planning where appropriate without implying that every case is performed on site or available on every date.
Preoperative Planning and Anesthesia
Planning may include orthopedic imaging and preoperative bloodwork. If surgery proceeds, gas anesthesia, oxygen, heart rate and vital-sign checks, temperature, blood pressure monitoring for the orthopedic case, and recovery monitoring support care through the anesthetic period.
The team discusses anticipated risks, postoperative restrictions, rechecks, and questions specific to your dog before a procedure is scheduled.
Recovery Requires a Partnership
- Prepare a confined, non-slip recovery area before surgery
- Follow activity restrictions and leash-only guidance provided for the case
- Prevent licking and inspect the incision as instructed
- Attend scheduled examinations and recommended follow-up imaging
- Report worsening pain, swelling, discharge, or loss of limb use promptly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every dog with a cruciate injury a TPLO candidate?
No. TPLO is considered for selected patients and cases after surgical consultation. Health, anatomy, activity, imaging, recovery needs, and alternative options all influence the recommendation.
Who collaborates on selected advanced cases?
Selected advanced orthopedic and surgical cases are managed in collaboration with Dr. Hani M. Korani, DVM, DACVS-SA. Case acceptance and scheduling determine availability.
What evaluation occurs before TPLO?
The process includes a surgical consultation and orthopedic assessment, with imaging and preoperative bloodwork considered as part of planning. The team also reviews anesthesia and recovery expectations.
How important is restricted activity after surgery?
Postoperative restrictions are a central part of protecting the repair while bone and soft tissues heal. Follow the case-specific discharge plan and attend recommended rechecks before increasing activity.