TPLO Surgery
Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture is one of the most frequent causes of hindlimb lameness in canine orthopedic patients.
Surgical treatment is considered the standard of care because it addresses joint instability more effectively and improves long-term outcomes.
One of the most widely used procedures is TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) surgery.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) is a well-described surgical procedure that treats CCL ruptures. This surgical technique alters the biomechanics of the stifle by leveling the tibial plateau, neutralizing the abnormal sliding (cranial tibial thrust) of the knee during weight bearing, caused by a torn ligament.
This procedure involves cutting and rotating the top of the tibial bone and stabilizes it with a stainless steel or titanium bone plate and screws, enabling a return to normal activity within 2–4 months.
Scientific literature supports the hypothesis that TPLO is associated with lower complication rates, an improved clinical-functional outcome and less post-operative OA compared to other procedures. The results are indicative for a long-term restoration of normal limb function after TPLO.
Another study showed that an objective gait analysis supports the superiority of TPLO surgery compared to other techniques. It has been showed that fewer patients treated with TPLO were diagnosed with postoperative joint instability, as well as lower incidence of osteoarthritis (OA) after surgery.
Summery:
TPLO surgery is considered a gold-standand surgical procedure for treating cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) ruptures in dogs, offers a reliable solution for restoring joint stability, focusing on early return to activity, faster recovery and better outcomes.
Sources:
Beer P, Bockstahler B, Schnabl-Feichter E. Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy and tibial tuberosity advancement - a systematic review. Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere. 2018 Aug;46(4):223-235.
Bergh MS, Sullivan C, Ferrell CL, Troy J, Budsberg SC. Systematic review of surgical treatments for cranial cruciate ligament disease in dogs. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2014 Sep-Oct;50(5):315-21.
Boudrieau RJ. Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy or tibial tuberosity advancement? Vet Surg. 2009 Jan;38(1):1-22.
