A simple visual of TPLO surgery.
TPLO ie. Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy. #tplo
This surgery is well recognized as the gold standard intervention for treatment of cranial cruciate ligament tears in dogs, especially those that are active and/or large breed.
Prior to surgery, the existing angle of the tibial plateau (the slope) is measured from a straight medial-lateral radiograph that includes both the stifle and hock joint.
Based on patient weight and bone size, an appropriate sized curved saw blade is selected, ranging from radius of 8mm up to 33mm. Most commonly, 18, 21, 24 or 27mm radius blades are used.
The saw blade is centered such that the radial pivot point is centered on the eminences of the tibia. Based on mathematical calculations, we can then rotate the proximal aspect of the tibia to neutralize the slope (ie: leveling osteotomy). Ideally, we aim for 4-6 degrees post op tibial plateau angle. Creating the new tibial plateau at this angle neutralizes the abnormal shear forces present from the lack of the cruciate ligament. This effectively allows a return to biomechanical stability, and in turn, return to soundness and comfort in your pet.
Due to the curvilinear cut created, we stabilize the artificial fracture using a specialized bone plate appropriate for the breed and weight of your dog.
A controlled rest and rehabilitation program is followed for 8 weeks while the bone heals.
With accuracy and proper execution, the TPLO surgery provides excellent outcomes. It has become the predominate choice of intervention amongst most veterinary surgeons over the last 20 years.
#tplo #caninecruciate #tibialplateau #ccl #stifle #vetsurg #vetortho #vetorthopedics #minnesota #mn #mnvet #mndog