TPLO Surgery

Advanced Orthopedic Surgery at Santaluz

At Santaluz Animal Care, we’re proud to offer TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) surgery. This is one of the most advanced orthopedic procedures in veterinary medicine, and if you’re researching treatment options for your dog’s cruciate ligament injury, you’ve likely discovered that TPLO is considered the gold standard for long-term success. Read on to understand why we’ve invested in bringing this specialized surgery to our practice!

TPLO is a sophisticated procedure that requires advanced training, specialized equipment, and extensive surgical expertise. Unlike older techniques that attempt to replace the torn ligament with sutures or artificial materials, TPLO actually redesigns how your dog’s knee works. By precisely cutting and rotating the tibial plateau to a specific angle (usually between 5-6.5 degrees), we create a biomechanically stable joint that no longer needs the cruciate ligament at all. This innovative approach is why TPLO has revolutionized how we treat one of the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs.

Why We Chose to Offer TPLO

  • Superior outcomes: Studies show 90-95% of dogs return to full function—significantly better than traditional repairs.
  • Specialized expertise: Our surgical team has completed advanced TPLO training and maintains certification in this complex procedure.
  • Investment in technology: We’ve equipped our surgical suite with specialized TPLO instruments, including bone saws, angle guides, and locking plate systems.
  • Comprehensive care: From initial diagnosis through complete rehabilitation, we manage every aspect of your dog’s recovery.
  • Size-inclusive success: While especially beneficial for large breeds, our precision techniques make TPLO successful for dogs as small as 10 pounds.

What Makes TPLO Different?

Traditional surgeries often fail because they rely on materials that weaken over time. Fishing line, wire, or synthetic ligaments simply can’t match the original ligament’s strength, especially in active or large dogs. These repairs have failure rates up to 30-40% within two years.

TPLO surgery is different because it addresses the root cause of instability. When your dog bears weight, the sloped tibial plateau normally causes the tibia to slide forward. The cruciate ligament prevents this sliding. TPLO levels that slope, eliminating the sliding motion entirely. No sliding means no need for a ligament, natural or artificial. This is why TPLO results last a lifetime.

Is TPLO Right for Your Dog?

TPLO surgery is recommended for dogs with:

  • Complete or partial CCL tears confirmed by examination and imaging
  • Chronic knee instability causing persistent lameness
  • Failed conservative management after 6-8 weeks of rest and anti-inflammatories
  • Active lifestyles that require a return to full athletic function
  • Large breed size (though we successfully perform TPLO on small dogs, too)
  • Concurrent meniscal damage that can be addressed during surgery

The Complete TPLO Experience at Santaluz

We begin with a thorough orthopedic examination, including drawer testing and tibial thrust assessment. Digital radiographs help us measure your dog’s tibial plateau angle and plan the precise correction needed.

Your dog receives individualized anesthetic protocols and comprehensive monitoring on the day  of the procedure. The procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes, during which we make the calculated bone cut, rotate the plateau to the optimal angle, and secure it with a specialized bone plate and screws. We also inspect and treat any meniscal damage.

Recovery Protocol: We provide detailed instructions for the critical 12-week recovery period, including:

  • Weeks 1-2: Strict rest, icing, and pain management
  • Weeks 3-6: Short leash walks, gradually increasing
  • Weeks 7-12: Progressive rehabilitation exercises
  • Week 8: Follow-up radiographs to confirm healing
  • Week 12+: Gradual return to normal activity

Rehabilitation Support: Soon, we’ll offer underwater treadmill therapy to accelerate recovery and optimize outcomes!

TPLO surgery represents a significant investment in your dog’s quality of life. While the initial cost is higher than traditional repairs, consider that:

  • The success rate is nearly double that of traditional surgeries
  • Results are permanent, avoiding costly revision surgeries
  • Dogs return to full activity rather than limited function
  • Arthritis progression is minimized, reducing long-term medication needs

Schedule Your TPLO Consultation

At Santaluz Animal Care, we understand that choosing TPLO surgery is a big decision. We’re here to answer all your questions and help determine if this advanced procedure is right for your dog. Ready to explore your options? Call us at (858) 258-5590 to schedule a comprehensive orthopedic consultation today!