TPLO Surgery for Dogs in Essex
A torn cruciate ligament is one of the most common causes of hind leg lameness in dogs. At Ivy Lodge Veterinary Clinic in Brentwood, Essex, we offer TPLO surgery to help stabilise the knee, reduce pain and support a strong return to movement.
Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy (TPLO) is a well-established surgical procedure used to treat cranial cruciate ligament injuries in dogs. It is commonly recommended for active dogs, larger breeds and pets who need a strong, long-term solution for knee instability.
What Is the Cruciate Ligament?
The cranial cruciate ligament in a dog’s knee works in a similar way to the ACL in people. It helps keep the knee stable during movement. When this ligament becomes damaged or ruptures, the knee becomes painful and unstable.
Signs of a cruciate ligament injury may include:
- Sudden limping on a back leg
- Difficulty standing up or getting into the car
- Stiffness after rest
- Toe-touching or carrying the leg
- Reduced activity or reluctance to exercise
- Swelling around the knee
If left untreated, a cruciate injury can lead to ongoing pain, meniscal damage and worsening arthritis.
When Is TPLO Recommended?
TPLO surgery is commonly recommended for dogs with a ruptured or partially torn cranial cruciate ligament, especially where there is significant instability in the knee joint.
TPLO may be recommended for:
- Medium to large breed dogs
- Active or athletic dogs
- Dogs with complete cruciate rupture
- Dogs needing a strong and reliable long-term repair
- Cases where conservative management is unlikely to be successful
Every dog is different, so we will always assess your pet carefully before recommending the most suitable treatment option.
What Happens Before TPLO Surgery?
Before surgery, your dog will need a full orthopaedic examination to confirm the diagnosis and assess the knee. X-rays are usually taken to help plan the procedure and check for changes within the joint.
Your dog’s pre-operative assessment may include:
- Orthopaedic examination
- X-rays of the knee
- Discussion of symptoms and mobility at home
- Pre-anaesthetic blood tests where appropriate
- A full estimate and recovery plan
This gives us the information needed to confirm whether TPLO surgery is the right option for your dog.
What Happens During TPLO Surgery?
During a TPLO procedure, the top of the tibia is carefully cut and rotated to change the angle of the knee joint. A specialised bone plate and screws are then used to secure the new position while the bone heals.
This helps stop the forward movement of the tibia during weight bearing, stabilising the joint without relying on the damaged ligament.
The procedure is designed to:
- Improve knee stability
- Reduce pain during movement
- Support better long-term function
- Help reduce further joint damage
Your dog will be closely monitored throughout the anaesthetic and recovery period by our veterinary and nursing team.
Recovery After TPLO Surgery
Recovery after Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy is gradual and requires careful aftercare at home. Most dogs begin to bear some weight on the leg relatively soon after surgery, but full recovery takes time.
Recovery usually involves:
- Strict rest in the early stages
- Lead-only exercise for a set period
- Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication
- Follow-up checks and repeat X-rays if needed
- A gradual return to normal exercise
- Physiotherapy or rehabilitation where appropriate
We will give you a detailed aftercare plan and guide you through each stage of recovery.
What Are the Benefits of TPLO Surgery?
TPLO is widely used because it provides excellent stability and can offer very good long-term outcomes in suitable cases.
Benefits of TPLO surgery may include:
- Improved limb function
- Better joint stability
- Reduced pain and lameness
- A strong surgical repair for active dogs
- Support for long-term mobility and quality of life
Helpful Articles
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What Is TPLO Surgery for Dogs?
If your dog has been diagnosed with a cruciate ligament injury, you may have been told that TPLO surgery could be the best treatment option. For many owners, this is the first time they have heard the term, and it is completely normal to have questions. In this guide, we explain what TPLO surgery is, why it is recommended, and how it can help dogs return to a more comfortable and active life
Book a TPLO Consultation
If your dog is limping, has been diagnosed with a cruciate ligament injury, or you have been advised to consider dog cruciate surgery, please contact Ivy Lodge Veterinary Clinic in Brentwood, Essex.
Our team can arrange an assessment and talk you through whether TPLO in Essex may be the right option for your dog.