Advanced knee repair for dogs with cruciate ligament injuries
At Middle Brighton Vet, we provide TPLO surgery - a specialised orthopaedic procedure designed to restore stability and comfort for dogs suffering from cruciate ligament (CCL/ACL) injuries.
This is one of the most effective and widely recommended surgeries for most dogs, helping them get back to pain-free walking, running, and playing.
Why dogs need TPLO surgery
The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in a dog’s knee acts much like the ACL in humans - stabilising the joint during movement. When it tears or degenerates, it causes pain, limping, and arthritis over time.
TPLO surgery changes the angle of the tibia (shin bone) to eliminate the need for that ligament entirely, creating a more stable, functional knee joint.
Why choose TPLO at Middle Brighton Vet
| Benefit | What it means for your dog (and you) |
|---|---|
| Experienced surgical team | Our vets perform advanced orthopaedic procedures, supported by visiting specialist surgeons when required. |
| Comprehensive care in one place | From diagnosis to post-operative rehab, all care is coordinated under one roof. |
| Accurate diagnostics | We use X-ray and orthopaedic assessments to confirm the injury and plan precise surgical angles. |
| Tailored pain management | Multi-stage pain control ensures your pet’s comfort before, during, and after surgery. |
| Modern equipment and sterile theatre | Our surgical facilities meet high standards for orthopaedic procedures. |
| Rehabilitation and recovery support | Post-op care includes physiotherapy guidance, exercise restrictions, and follow-up imaging to track healing. |
The TPLO procedure explained
1. Pre-operative assessment - full physical exam, orthopaedic evaluation, and radiographs to measure tibial angle.
2. Surgery - under general anaesthetic, the top of the tibia is carefully cut and rotated to a new angle, then secured with a metal plate and screws.
3. Immediate recovery - dogs wake up with pain relief, monitoring, and comfortable bedding.
4. Post-surgery care - restricted exercise, bandage care, and regular check-ups for 6–12 weeks.
5. Long-term outcome - once healed, most dogs regain full mobility and live pain-free, active lives.
Aftercare & recovery
We support every patient through the healing journey with:
● Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications
● Controlled exercise plan (short leash walks only in early weeks)
● Follow-up X-rays to confirm bone healing
● Rehabilitation & physiotherapy advice for joint strength
● Nutritional & weight management to protect the repaired knee
FAQ
How successful is TPLO surgery?
Very. Over 90% of dogs regain full or near-normal function in the affected leg with proper post-operative care.
Is TPLO painful?
We use advanced anaesthesia and pain management protocols to keep your dog comfortable. Most pets are weight-bearing within a few days.
What’s the recovery time?
Usually 8–12 weeks for bone healing, with gradual exercise increases guided by our team.
Can my dog tear the other cruciate ligament?
Unfortunately yes - about half of dogs eventually injure the other knee. Weight control and regular check-ups reduce this risk.
Will there be a metal plate permanently?
Yes - the plate and screws typically stay in place for life, unless complications arise (rare).
TPLO Surgery
Our team of professionals are here to help make pet care easy. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet's health, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or give us a call to arrange a suitable time.
