Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) Surgery in Dogs
A Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) is a common orthopedic surgery performed in dogs to treat a torn or ruptured cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) - the canine equivalent of the human ACL. The CCL is essential for stabilizing the knee (stifle) joint. When it is damaged, dogs often experience pain, lameness, and progressive arthritis.
Rather than replacing the torn ligament, TPLO surgery changes the biomechanics of the knee so it can function without the CCL, allowing dogs to return to comfortable, active lives.
What Is the Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL)?
The CCL helps:
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Stabilize the knee joint
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Prevent the shin bone (tibia) from sliding forward
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Control rotational movement of the knee
When the CCL tears - either suddenly or gradually - the knee becomes unstable. This instability leads to inflammation, pain, limping, and eventual arthritis if left untreated.
How TPLO Surgery Works
In a TPLO procedure:
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A curved cut is made in the top of the tibia (shin bone)
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The tibial plateau is rotated to a more level angle
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The bone is stabilized with a surgical plate and screws
By leveling the tibial plateau, the knee no longer relies on the CCL for stability during weight-bearing. This significantly reduces pain and abnormal movement within the joint.
Which Dogs Are Good Candidates for TPLO?
TPLO is often recommended for:
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Medium to large breed dogs
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Active dogs or working dogs
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Dogs with complete or partial CCL tears
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Dogs with knee instability or early arthritis
Smaller dogs may also benefit from TPLO depending on their anatomy and activity level.
Benefits of TPLO Surgery
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Excellent long-term stability of the knee
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Faster and more consistent return to function
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Allows dogs to bear weight relatively quickly
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Reduced progression of arthritis compared to non-surgical management
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High success rate when combined with proper rehabilitation
TPLO Surgery Cost & What's Included
The cost for TPLO surgery at our hospital is $5,000. We offer this as a flat-rate surgical package to provide transparency and help pet owners plan with confidence.
Your dog’s TPLO surgery fee includes:
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Pre-operative exam and surgical planning
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Pre-operative and post-operative radiographs related to the surgery
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General anesthesia with continuous monitoring
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TPLO surgery and all required implants (plate and screws)
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Intraoperative pain management
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Hospitalization and nursing care
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Post-operative medications (pain control and antibiotics if indicated)
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Elizabethan collar (e-collar)
This comprehensive package is designed to cover the core surgical care needed for a successful TPLO outcome.
Services Not Included in the TPLO Package
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Pre-operative bloodwork to assess anesthetic safety
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Post-surgery follow-up examinations
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Post-surgery bandage changes, if recommended
Additional Services Not Included That May Be Recommended
Depending on healing progress and individual recovery needs, additional services may be advised:
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Physical rehabilitation or therapeutic exercise programs
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Laser therapy or other adjunctive therapies
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Follow-up radiographs at ~ 8-12 weeks post-surgery
A detailed treatment plan and written estimate will be provided prior to surgery, and our team will review all recommendations with you so there are no surprises.
Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Before scheduling surgery, your dog will undergo:
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A thorough orthopedic exam
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X-rays of the affected knee
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Blood work to assess anesthetic safety
Your veterinarian will review the procedure, risks, and recovery plan with you in detail prior to surgery.
What to Expect on Surgery Day
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Your dog will be placed under general anesthesia
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TPLO surgery typically takes 1-2 hours
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Pain management is provided before, during, and after surgery
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Most dogs go home the same day
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery is a critical part of TPLO success and typically lasts 8-12 weeks.
During Recovery:
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Strict activity restriction (no running, jumping, or stairs)
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Short, controlled leash walks only
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Use of pain medications and anti-inflammatories as prescribed
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Gradual return to activity based on follow-up exams and X-rays
Rehabilitation May Include:
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Physical therapy exercises
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Controlled strengthening activities
Follow-up visits and repeat X-rays are essential to ensure proper bone healing.
Potential Risks and Complications
While TPLO is considered very safe, all surgeries carry some risk, including:
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Infection
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Delayed bone healing
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Implant-related complications
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Meniscal injury
Most complications are uncommon and are treatable when identified early.
Long-Term Outlook
The majority of dogs undergoing TPLO surgery:
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Return to normal or near-normal activity
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Experience significant pain relief
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Enjoy an improved quality of life
It is important to note that arthritis can still develop over time, but TPLO significantly slows its progression compared to untreated CCL injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my dog need surgery on the other knee?
A: Approximately 40–60% of dogs with a CCL tear may develop injury to the opposite knee over time.
Q: When can my dog return to normal activity?
A: Most dogs gradually return to full activity around 3–4 months post-surgery, depending on healing and rehabilitation progress.
Q: Is TPLO better than other surgical options?
A: TPLO is often considered the gold standard for many dogs, particularly larger or active pets, due to its strength and durability.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If your dog has been diagnosed with a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury or is showing signs of knee pain or limping, we’re here to help!
We invite you to contact our hospital at 925-825-8464 to schedule a consultation to determine whether TPLO surgery is the right option for your dog. Our veterinary team will review diagnostic findings, discuss treatment options, and create a personalized care and recovery plan tailored to your pet’s needs tailored to helping your dog return to a more comfortable, active life.