Diagnosis
Cranial cruciate ligament ruptures are diagnosed based upon symptoms and palpation of the joint with the dog under sedation. With sedation the muscles relax and the veterinarian can move the tibia back and forth under the femur freely, called a positive drawer motion, which would be impossible if the cruciate ligament were intact.

Following initial diagnosis and as part of the evaluation for TPLO surgery, the knees will be x-rayed. The condition may occur in both legs from 30-50% of the time.

In the x-rays to the right, the upper X-ray shows a normal leg with the femur in proper position on top of the tibia. In the second x-ray, the ligament is torn, and the femur has slid down the slope of the tibia, causing damage to the joint surface as it grinds bone against bone with weight bearing.

On the abnormal x-ray, the doctor has taken some measurements and marked the x-ray in preparation for the TPLO procedure.

TPLO is the best surgical option
There are several options available for dogs who need surgical correction for cranial cruciate rupture. But, over the last few years TPLO has emerged as the surgery with the best results.

Compared to other options, TPLO generally provides:

• faster recovery
• more range of motion for the joint
• a better return to athletic or working activity
• less long term arthritis and pain

TPLO surgery levels the top of the tibia, creating a stable surface for the femur and eliminating the sliding action which causes damage to the joint. To accomplish leveling of the tibia, the top of the tibia is cut, re-aligned, and a metal plate is placed to hold the top of the bone in position to heal. During the surgery the torn ligament and the meniscus, if damaged, will be trimmed or removed to reduce inflammation.

In the X-rays to the right, the leg from above has been corrected by TPLO, and the femur is now resting securely on top of the tibia, in a similar position to the normal joint.

Choosing a veterinary surgeon
TPLO surgery has a steep learning curve and should be performed by a Slocum TPLO Certified Veterinarian with advanced training for the procedure and experience with successful cases.

Dr. Joe Rodier has many years of experience and a record of success with advanced orthopedic procedures. When this procedure was developed a few years ago, he recognized it as a superior procedure to the other available options. He trained with a board certified surgeon and received his certification for performing the TPLO procedure.

Over the last couple of years he has performed TPLO surgery on many dogs, often several per month, with excellent results.

Dr. Rodier is available for consultation, second opinions, or referrals for the TPLO surgery procedure.

Post-op Care and Recovery
Recovery from TPLO surgery is more rapid and complete than for other procedures used in the past. Some dogs will start bearing weight within 24 hours after surgery, and almost all dogs are starting to put weight on the leg within 2 weeks. Generally within 1-3 months the leg is fully healed.

It is very important in the post-op period to restrict the dog's activity to walking on a leash and to prevent falling, jumping, playing with other dogs, or any activity which could result in trauma to the surgery site. On a case by case basis, the doctor will recommend physical activities to maintain strength in the muscles while the leg heals.