TPLO for Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture
Are you in love with this guy? We are. This is Brisket, a young Labrador retriever, who recently underwent TPLO surgery for his ruptured cranial cruciate ligament ("ACL").
The Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) is a surgical technique that changes the weight bearing surface of the tibia, or shin bone (the tibial plateau). The weight bearing surface is altered by creating a controlled fracture (osteotomy) and rotating the tibial plateau to a more neutral or level position. A bone plate and screws stabilize the osteotomy until healing is complete. Altering the weight bearing surface of this joint eliminates the need for the cruciate ligament.
There are several ways to treat cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs. However, a series of published clinical studies have shown that, when compared to other cruciate repair techniques (TTA and extra-capsular stabilization), dogs who undergo TPLO with an experienced surgeon have:
- a more rapid recovery
- better range of motion of the knee
- development of less arthritis
- full return to athletic or working activity
Here's to Brisket and his speedy, complete recovery!
