TPLO Surgery at Allambie Vets
At Allambie Vet, we offer Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery to treat one of the most common orthopaedic injuries in dogs—cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears. The CCL is a key stabilising ligament in the knee (stifle) joint, and due to the natural angle and mechanics of a dog’s hind leg, this ligament is under constant tension. Over time or with sudden trauma, it can tear partially or completely, causing pain, instability, and lameness. When the CCL is torn, the femur slides abnormally across the tibia during movement, leading to discomfort, inflammation, and further joint damage, including possible meniscal tears. TPLO surgery works by altering the angle of the tibia to eliminate this abnormal movement, restoring stability without relying on the damaged ligament. Our experienced surgical team provides advanced care to help your dog return to a comfortable, active life.
Benefits of TPLO Surgery for Your Dog
TPLO surgery (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) is one of the most effective surgical treatments for dogs suffering from a cranial cruciate ligament rupture. This procedure stabilises the knee joint by altering the tibial plateau angle, eliminating the need for the damaged ligament and reducing mechanical stress on the joint. Most dogs undergoing TPLO surgery experience significant pain relief, improved weight bearing, and a faster return to normal activity within eight weeks. Unlike other surgical techniques, such as TTA surgery or Extracapsular repair (De Angelis), TPLO surgery for dogs offers long-term stability and is currently the procedure that has the best outcomes. TPLO surgery involves securing the dog’s tibia with a bone plate, minimising unwanted movement and helping the joint heal properly. Cruciate ligament injuries—including partial tears, complete tears, and meniscal cartilage damage—can progress if left untreated, leading to chronic pain and reduced mobility. The TPLO procedure is especially beneficial for active dogs and large breeds, but is recommended in all size dogs by helping to restore full function to the affected leg. TPLO surgery improves quality of life and reduces risk of arthritis. TPLO can be performed at our hospital by a local Specialist Surgeon (Dr Eugene Buffa) or by our experienced veterinarians (Dr Kate Clair and Dr Linda White), who have trained in TPLO techniques and can provide surgery in dogs weighing 23-46kg.
Why Choose Allambie Vets for TPLO Surgery?
Allambie Vet has been providing expert TPLO care on the Northern Beaches of Sydney for many years, combining advanced surgical techniques with years of experience and personalised treatment to ensure the best outcomes for dogs with cruciate ligament injuries. We tailor each TPLO procedure to your dog’s condition, taking into account factors like tibial plateau angle, joint capsule and cartilage health, potential meniscal tear and concurrent luxating patellas. Our team is skilled in handling complex CCL injuries, and we support every stage of your dog’s knee surgery—from pre-op blood tests and pain management to post op recovery and physical therapy. Our hospital is well-equipped with the latest in anaesthetic, X-ray, and surgical equipment to provide the safest and highest quality care for your pet. Allambie Vets is also committed to educating pet owners about the healing process, including post-operative care, the role of the bone plate in stabilising the dog’s tibia, and how to avoid unwanted complications in the operated limb. For dogs with cruciate ligament issues, we also offer guidance on alternative surgical treatments such as De-Angelis surgery (Extracapsular repair) and management if not doing surgery to help you make informed choices about your dog’s long-term health. With a focus on pain management, minimising possible complications, and restoring the function of the affected leg, we provide the care and support needed to help your dog return to a full and active life.
How do I know if my dog needs TPLO surgery?
Signs of a CCL tear include sudden or progressive lameness, reluctance to bear weight on a hind leg, stiffness after rest, or difficulty rising and jumping. Diagnosis is made through physical examination and imaging such as X-rays. If your dog has a complete or partial CCL tear, TPLO is often the most effective surgical treatment.
What are the benefits of TPLO compared to other surgeries?
TPLO tends to provide better long-term stability and faster return to function than other procedures, especially in medium to large breed dogs or highly active pets. It also reduces the risk of further damage to the meniscus.
What does the recovery process involve?
Recovery typically includes 8–12 weeks of restricted activity, with gradual reintroduction to normal exercise. Regular rechecks and X-rays are scheduled to monitor healing. Physiotherapy may be recommended to support recovery and rebuild strength.
Will my dog be in pain after surgery?
Pain is managed with a combination of medications, including anti-inflammatories and pain relief, both during and after the procedure. Most dogs are comfortable and alert by the next day, and many begin using the leg within a few days post-op.
Are there risks or complications?
As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, implant-related irritation, or delayed healing, but these are uncommon with proper care. Our team closely monitors your dog throughout the process to minimise any potential issues.
Is TPLO surgery suitable for all dogs?
While TPLO is ideal for many dogs with CCL tears, especially those over 15 kg or very active, smaller dogs and those with specific health concerns may benefit from alternative procedures. We’ll help determine the best option for your pet based on their individual needs.
How do I book a TPLO consultation at Allambie Vet?
You can call our clinic directly or book online to schedule a consultation. One of our experienced veterinarians will assess your dog’s condition, discuss treatment options, and guide you through the next steps.
What happens after the surgery?
Your dog will stay with us in hospital for post-operative care for 1-2 nights. They will receive strong intravenous pain relief and will have constant care from our team of vets and nurses. We will make a discharge time when your dog is ready to go home to discuss all the post-operative care needed and answer any questions you have. Some swelling and bruising is normal for up to a week after surgery. Most dogs will begin to use their repaired leg within 14 days (this will begin with light toe touching, progressing slowly to full weight bearing in 8-9 weeks). After 10-14 days, the stitches will need to be removed. We usually start a course of injections (Zydax/Pentosan Polysulphate), which can slow the progression of arthritis and help control the pain associated with the disease by increasing joint fluid production and blood supply to joint surfaces. At 6 weeks following the surgery, your dog will have an X-ray to evaluate the healing progress. If healing is adequate, your dog may start to be exercised off leash, and further instructions will be given for returning your dog to normal activities.
What should I do to prepare for my pet’s surgery?
Before bringing your dog home from hospital it is important to have prepared a ‘home hospital bed’ for them to rest in. It is vital that your dog’s movement is restricted for 6-8 weeks to allow adequate healing- this includes no stairs, no playing with other dogs, no off-lead walking and no jumping. Keeping them in a dog crate or small room on a non-slip surface is the safest way to ensure they do not harm themselves. Your dog will not be able to have a bath or be groomed for a couple of weeks after the surgery, so it is recommended that you bathe your dog prior to surgery. This also minimises the risk of skin infections. Your pet should also have a flea treatment prior to admission. Your dog needs to be fasted for the general anaesthetic. Please give them their normal dinner the night before admission, and then no food after midnight. Water does not need to be restricted at any time.
What can I do to improve the chances of a safe and complete recovery?
Following the confinement recommendations and post- operative instructions will help reduce the risks of any complications occurring. Physical therapy and rehabilitation can also complement and speed recovery. This can usually start 2 weeks after surgery once the stitches are removed.
