TPLO

Rupture of the cruciate ligament is the most common orthopedic injury in dogs, particularly larger breeds. TPLO surgery is the advanced treatment of canine cruciate ligament repair. At Calistoga Pet Clinic, our team has special training in this innovative procedure.  

What is the Cruciate Ligament?

The cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL for short, is comparable to the ACL in the human body. It is responsible for providing stability to a dog’s knee joint. When this ligament becomes damaged or torn, the knee cannot hinge properly, which can cause pain and mobility issues. While these injuries may appear suddenly, they most often occur due to a prolonged period of undetected deterioration. 

What is TPLO Treatment?

There are several different surgical techniques that are commonly used to repair CCL injuries. The procedure recommended and routinely performed at Calistoga Pet Clinic is known as tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO). This technique has shown to be superior to other treatment methods for many reasons, including: 

• Shorter recovery period
• Better range of motion for the joint
• Faster return to normal activity
• Lower risk of arthritis development

TPLO services are available for current patients as well as referrals and second opinions. 

If you have any questions on TPLO or cruciate ligament issues, please contact Calistoga Pet Clinic. We’d be happy to discuss your pet’s specific needs and schedule an appointment for a professional evaluation.