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 stabilises 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.
The TPLO procedure explained
1. Pre-operative assessment - full physical exam, orthopaedic evaluation, and radiographs. 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 and monitoring. 4. Post-surgery care - restricted exercise, bandage care, and regular check-ups for 6 to 12 weeks. 5. Long-term outcome - once healed, most dogs regain full mobility and live pain-free, active lives.
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.
