TPLO Surgery for Dogs in Southeastern Michigan

TPLO is an advanced orthopedic procedure used to stabilize the knee following a cranial cruciate ligament injury. At OVRS, our experienced surgical team provides specialized care designed to help dogs return to more comfortable, confident movement.

A torn cranial cruciate ligament can turn ordinary activities—walking, climbing stairs, getting into the car, or playing—into painful challenges for your dog.

Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy, commonly called TPLO, is an advanced orthopedic procedure that restores knee stability after a cranial cruciate ligament injury. Rather than replacing the damaged ligament, TPLO changes knee mechanics so it remains stable while bearing weight.

At Oakland Veterinary Referral Services, our board-certified veterinary surgeons provide comprehensive care for dogs with cranial cruciate ligament disease, from diagnosis and surgical planning through postoperative monitoring and recovery.

We work closely with you and your family veterinarian to determine whether TPLO is the right choice for your dog and to help you understand what to expect at every stage.

CCL INJURY

What Is a Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury?

The cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL, is one of the primary stabilizing structures inside a dog’s knee. The canine knee is also called the stifle.

The CCL performs a role similar to the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, in the human knee. It helps prevent abnormal movement between the femur (the thigh bone) and the tibia (the shin bone).

When the ligament weakens, is partially torn, or completely ruptures, the knee loses stability. This instability can cause pain, inflammation, limping, cartilage damage, and progressive arthritis.

The meniscus, a cartilage-like structure that cushions the knee and helps distribute weight, may also become damaged when the joint is unstable.

How Do CCL Injuries Happen?

Although people often think of a cruciate tear as a sudden athletic injury, canine CCL disease frequently develops through gradual degeneration of the ligament.

A dog may begin limping after running, jumping, slipping, or turning quickly, but the ligament may have been weakening for some time before the symptoms became noticeable.

Factors that may contribute to CCL disease include:

• Genetics and breed predisposition
• The shape and alignment of the bones and joints
• Age-related ligament degeneration
• Excess body weight
• Poor physical conditioning
• Repetitive strain
• Previous injury
• Inflammation within the knee

CCL disease can affect dogs of many breeds, sizes, and ages. It is not limited to large or highly active dogs.

Signs of a CCL Injury

Symptoms vary depending on whether the ligament is partially or completely torn and whether the injury developed gradually or suddenly.

Signs may include:

• Limping on a rear leg
• Refusing or struggling to bear weight
• Stiffness, especially after resting
• Difficulty rising from a seated or lying position
• Sitting with the affected leg extended to one side
• Reluctance to run, jump, climb stairs, or enter a vehicle
• Reduced interest in walks or play
• Swelling around the knee
• Loss of muscle in the affected leg
• A clicking or popping sound from the knee
• Pain when the leg or knee is touched
• Intermittent limping that improves and then returns

Dogs do not always cry or show obvious distress when they are in pain. Evaluate persistent limping or changes in mobility, even if your dog continues eating, playing, or interacting normally.

How Is a CCL Injury Diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a review of your dog’s history and a thorough orthopedic examination.

The surgeon will evaluate your dog’s gait, muscle condition, joint movement, pain, swelling, and knee stability. The surgeon may use specific examination techniques to detect abnormal motion within the joint.

Some dogs tense their muscles during an examination, making subtle instability harder to detect. Mild sedation may be recommended to help the surgeon examine the knee accurately and comfortably.

Diagnostic testing may include:

• Orthopedic examination
• Digital radiographs
• Bloodwork before anesthesia or medication
• Additional imaging or testing when another condition is suspected

Radiographs do not show the ligament itself, but they can reveal joint swelling, arthritis, bone changes, and other conditions that may affect treatment. Specialized radiographs also measure the tibial plateau and help plan the TPLO procedure.

TPLO SURGERY

What Is TPLO Surgery?

TPLO stands for tibial plateau leveling osteotomy.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a carefully planned curved cut in the upper portion of the tibia. That section of bone is rotated to change the angle of the tibial plateau—the surface at the top of the shin bone that helps form the knee joint.

The surgeon then secures the repositioned bone with a specialized plate and screws while it heals.

This change alters the forces acting on the knee during weight-bearing. Instead of relying on the damaged cranial cruciate ligament for stability, the remodeled joint mechanics allow the knee to remain more stable when the dog stands and walks.

The procedure does not recreate or replace the torn ligament. It changes how the knee functions without it.

During surgery, the surgeon will also evaluate the joint and meniscus. If meniscal damage is present, the surgeon may treat it at that time.

What Is the Goal of TPLO Surgery?

The goals of TPLO are to:

• Improve stability within the knee
• Reduce pain associated with joint instability
• Help the dog use the affected leg more comfortably
• Support a return to appropriate daily activity
• Limit ongoing damage caused by an unstable joint
• Help slow the progression of arthritis

TPLO cannot eliminate arthritis that has already developed, and some arthritic change may continue over time. Stabilizing the knee can, however, reduce the abnormal movement and pain that contribute to continued joint damage.

Is TPLO Right for Every Dog?

TPLO is commonly recommended for dogs with cranial cruciate ligament injuries, particularly active dogs and those with significant knee instability. However, no single procedure fits every patient.

The surgeon will consider:

• Your dog’s size and age
• Activity level and lifestyle
• Degree of knee instability
• Whether the ligament is partially or completely torn
• Tibial anatomy and joint conformation
• Presence of meniscal injury or arthritis
• Condition of the opposite knee
• Overall health and anesthetic considerations
• Your family’s ability to manage postoperative restrictions
• Your goals and concerns

We may discuss other surgical or nonsurgical approaches when appropriate. The purpose of the consultation is to determine which option best balances benefit, risk, recovery, and quality of life for your dog.

What to Expect From a TPLO Consultation

During your consultation, the surgical team will review your dog’s medical history, current medications, diagnostic findings, and mobility concerns.

The appointment may include:

• A physical and orthopedic examination
• Observation of your dog’s gait
• Review of existing radiographs and medical records
• Additional radiographs or diagnostic testing
• Discussion of TPLO and other treatment options
• Review of potential benefits and complications
• Explanation of hospitalization and home care
• Discussion of anticipated rechecks and rehabilitation
• A written treatment plan and cost estimate
• Time to answer your questions

A surgical consultation does not obligate you to proceed. It gives you the information needed to make an informed decision about your dog’s care.

Preparing for Surgery

The surgical team will provide instructions specific to your dog. These may include guidance about food, water, medications, arrival time, and what to bring.

Before anesthesia, your dog may need:

• A physical examination
• Bloodwork
• Updated radiographs
• Additional testing based on age or medical history
• Evaluation by another OVRS specialist if a health concern could affect anesthesia or recovery

Tell the team about every medication, supplement, and preventive your dog receives. Do not stop a prescribed medication or withhold food unless you have been instructed to do so.

Preparing your home before surgery can also make recovery easier. Consider arranging:

• A small, secure recovery area
• Nonslip rugs or mats
• Barriers to prevent access to stairs
• A supportive harness or sling if recommended
• A crate or exercise pen when appropriate
• A plan to separate your dog from active pets and children during early healing

The Day of TPLO Surgery

Your dog will receive an individualized anesthesia and pain-management plan based on the procedure, health history, age, and diagnostic findings.

During surgery, the veterinary team will monitor vital signs and your dog’s response to anesthesia. The surgeon will stabilize the knee through the planned tibial rotation and implant placement and will address meniscal damage if found.

After surgery, your dog will recover under veterinary supervision. Postoperative care may include:

• Pain medication
• Intravenous fluids
• Incision monitoring
• Assisted mobility
• Cold therapy or other supportive measures
• Continued monitoring of comfort and vital signs

Hospital length depends on your dog’s condition, comfort, mobility, and individual needs.

OTHER

TPLO Surgery Costs and Planning

The cost of TPLO surgery depends on your dog’s needs and what the treatment plan includes. Factors may include:

• Consultation and examination
• Diagnostic imaging
• Preoperative laboratory testing
• Anesthesia and monitoring
• Implants
• The surgical procedure
• Hospitalization
• Medications
• Follow-up visits
• Follow-up radiographs
• Rehabilitation needs
• Treatment for complications, if they occur

After evaluating your dog, OVRS will provide an estimate and explain what it includes. We encourage you to ask questions so you understand the anticipated costs, possible variables, and payment options before treatment.

Learn more about costs, estimates, and financial planning at OVRS.

Why Choose OVRS for TPLO Surgery?

TPLO is an advanced orthopedic procedure requiring specialized training, precise planning, appropriate equipment, and carefully managed recovery.

At OVRS, your dog’s care is supported by:

• Board-certified veterinary surgeons
• Experienced veterinary technicians and surgical assistants
• Advanced diagnostic imaging
• Individualized anesthesia and pain management
• On-site access to multiple veterinary specialties
• Emergency and critical care support
• Thorough discharge instructions and follow-up care
• Communication with your family veterinarian

If another medical condition could affect anesthesia, surgery, or recovery, our multidisciplinary team can collaborate to develop a more complete care plan.

Partnering With Your Family Veterinarian

Your family veterinarian remains an important part of your dog’s care.

OVRS will communicate relevant findings, surgical recommendations, procedure details, and follow-up plans to the referring veterinarian. Depending on your dog’s needs, OVRS may provide ongoing care, your family veterinarian may provide it, or both may coordinate care.

This partnership supports continuity from the first signs of limping through surgery, healing, rehabilitation, and long-term joint care.

Help Your Dog Return to More Comfortable Movement

A CCL injury can be painful, but effective treatment options are available. With an accurate diagnosis, an appropriate surgical plan, careful home management, and gradual rehabilitation, many dogs can return to the activities they enjoy.

Ask your family veterinarian whether a TPLO consultation may be appropriate for your dog, call OVRS at (248) 334‑6877, or request an appointment.

To explore OVRS’s full range of orthopedic, soft tissue, oncologic, thoracic, and minimally invasive procedures, visit our Veterinary Surgery page.