TPLO Surgery: ACL Surgery for Dogs and Cats

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery in Phoenix

Cruciate ligament rupture or disease is a common orthopedic condition in dogs and cats and a frequent cause of hindlimb lameness.

While an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture in humans is a common sports-related injury, dogs more commonly suffer from cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries because of a degenerative process.  This results in the CCL weakening over time and causing it to tear gradually and cause osteoarthritis.

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Instability from a cruciate ligament rupture can lead to a meniscal injury, which exacerbates lameness and accelerates degenerative joint disease in dogs and cats. Just like with humans, when the ACL (or CCL in dogs) is injured it can be a full or partial tear.

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How can I prevent osteoarthritis in my dog or cat?

The mainstay of treating cruciate ligament disease in dogs and cats is osteoarthritis management through maintaining a lean body weight, regular exercise, joint supplements and controlling pain. However, surgical stabilization of the stifle (or knee joint) is often recommended to maximize return to function and slow osteoarthritis.

There are a number of surgeries designed for treating CCL conditions in dogs and cats, with each one being dependent on your pet and the type of injury.

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Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) is one of the most commonly performed surgery to repair cruciate ligament injuries due to consistent outcomes and rapid return to function associated with the procedure. At CARE Surgery Center, TPLO surgery is performed with titanium alloy advanced locking plate system (ALPS – Kyon) implants which better preserve blood supply and lower infection rate.

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If you’re concerned about osteoarthritis in your pet or have questions about TPLO surgery, contact our highly skilled team of veterinary doctors and technicians.

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What are the signs my cat or dog has a cruciate ligament injury?

Dogs and cats are good at hiding orthopedic problems like a ruptured cruciate ligament or torn ACL, and the fact that they can’t tell us what’s wrong presents a challenge. However, there are many signs and symptoms that are easily recognizable and help indicate when it’s time to take your animal in for treatment.

Examples Include

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Lameness or change in weight bearing

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Reluctance to go on walks/runs or fatigued quicker

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Changes in sitting posture

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Head bobbing when walking

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Reluctance to ascend or descend stairs or hills

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Signs of pain, which can include hiding or acting clingy and even a change appetite

Orthopedic Injuries We Treat

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

CCL rupture

(Caudal or Cranial Cruciate Ligament)

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Torn ACL

(Anterior Cruciate Ligament)

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Torn PCL

(Posterior Cruciate Ligament)

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Hip Dysplasia

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Broken Bones

Minimally Invasive Pet Surgery In Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Fractures

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Recovery after TPLO

Recovery from TPLO or orthopedic surgery happens in stages. Skin sutures are removed around two weeks after surgery, during which time a collar to prevent self-trauma is indicated. Bone healing is typically visible on radiographs (x-rays) six to eight weeks after surgery.

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During this time period, activity is restricted to short leash walks and light physical therapy until bone healing is demonstrated radiographically. The next phase of rehabilitation focuses on muscle regrowth and return to full activity. Should you ever have any questions regarding aftercare, don’t hesitate to contact us.

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board certified veterinary surgeon - CARE Surgery Center

Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeon

Dr. Bleakley specializes in minimally invasive surgery techniques, combining advanced veterinary surgical training with state-of-the-art technology to minimize the impact of TPLO and other surgeries for your dog or cat.

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What to Expect

What to Expect Before Surgery - Pet Surgery - CARE Surgery Center
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Cats and Dogs in Phoenix - CARE Surgery Center

Resources

Veterinary Resources for Pet-Owners and Veterinarians - CARE Surgery Center

CARE Surgery Center

Companion Animal Referral

6677 W. Thunderbird Rd. L188
Glendale, AZ 85306

623.328.9007
623.440.5709
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19035 W. Capitol Dr. Ste J101
Brookfield, WI 53045

262.286.2491
262.683.8971
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