CCL tears are more common in dogs than many pet owners realize. In fact, a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that up to 11% of dogs will experience a CCL injury at some point in their lives.
If your dog has been diagnosed with a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear, you may feel overwhelmed with questions about treatment options. One of the most effective and advanced solutions is Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery—a procedure that’s been changing the lives of dogs with knee injuries for years. But what exactly is TPLO surgery, and why should you trust Blue Springs Animal Hospital and Dr. Joe Rodier for this specialized orthopedic procedure?
What is the CCL in Dogs?
The Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) in dogs is the equivalent of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) in humans. Both ligaments play a critical role in stabilizing the knee joint. In dogs, the CCL helps keep the femur (thigh bone) positioned properly on top of the tibia (shin bone). This stability allows for smooth and controlled movement of the knee joint, also known as the stifle joint in dogs.
When the CCL becomes damaged or torn, it disrupts this stability, causing the tibia to move forward abnormally (known as tibial thrust), which leads to pain, inflammation, and, over time, the development of arthritis in the joint. The resulting instability is a major cause of lameness in dogs, significantly impacting their ability to walk, run, or even stand comfortably.
How Does a CCL Tear Occur in Dogs?
In contrast to human ACL injuries, which are often caused by a sudden traumatic event (like a quick pivot or jump), CCL tears in dogs are usually the result of degenerative changes. These changes happen slowly over time, weakening the ligament and making it more susceptible to tearing, even with normal activities.
Factors that can increase a dog’s risk of a CCL tear include:
- Obesity: Extra weight puts more strain on the knee.
- Sedentary lifestyle: A lack of regular exercise weakens the muscles that support the knee joint.
- Age: Ligaments weaken over time.
- Breed: Larger breeds like Rottweilers, Labradors, and Mastiffs are more susceptible.
- Gender: Females and neutered males have a slightly higher risk.
Maintaining a healthy weight and keeping your dog active are crucial in preventing CCL injuries. But if your dog does experience a rupture, TPLO surgery could be the best option for a speedy recovery and long-term joint health.
What Is Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO)?
TPLO surgery is an advanced technique used to treat CCL ruptures in dogs by altering the mechanics of the knee joint. Instead of attempting to repair the damaged ligament, the procedure focuses on stabilizing the joint so that it no longer depends on the CCL. This is achieved by leveling the top of the tibia (shinbone), creating a stable surface for the femur (thigh bone) to rest on. This effectively restores proper joint function and allows the dog to regain mobility without the ligament.
Why Choose Dr. Joe Rodier at Blue Springs Animal Hospital?
TPLO surgery has a steep learning curve and should be performed by a Veterinarian with advanced training for the procedure and extensive experience with successful patient outcomes.As a Slocum TPLO Certified Veterinarian, Dr. Joe Rodier at Blue Springs Animal Hospital has been performing this surgery since 2006 and has completed over 4,000 TPLO surgeries with exceptional patient outcomes.
- Referral Expert: Many local veterinarians in Kansas and Missouri trust Dr. Rodier for second opinions and referrals. With a consistent caseload of 3-4 TPLO surgeries per week, Dr. Rodier's skills are highly sought after.
- Free Second Opinion: Not sure if TPLO surgery is right for your dog? Blue Springs Animal Hospital offers a free second opinion exam and consultation with Dr. Rodier. He’ll carefully examine your pet and help you decide the best course of action.
- Proven Success: A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Surgery found that 93% of dogs who undergo TPLO surgery regain normal limb function within a year. TPLO is considered the gold standard for CCL repairs, often providing faster recovery, more joint mobility, and less long-term arthritis compared to other surgical options.
What to Expect During TPLO Surgery at Blue Springs Animal Hospital
At Blue Springs Animal Hospital, your dog’s health and comfort are the top priorities. Here’s what the TPLO process looks like:
- Pre-Surgical Exam: Your dog will receive a thorough physical exam and bloodwork to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
- Anesthesia and Pain Control: The veterinary team uses advanced pain management techniques, including epidurals and multiple types of pain relief to ensure your dog’s comfort during and after the procedure.
- Advanced Surgery: Dr. Rodier uses specialized equipment to rotate the tibia to a precise angle and secure it with a metal plate, stabilizing the knee joint. Post-surgery X-rays will confirm that the tibia is in the correct position.
- Post-Surgery Care: Your dog will stay overnight to ensure they are pain-free and comfortable. When your pet goes home you will need to strictly enforce limited activity for 12 weeks after surgery until the bone has healed.
Most dogs recover well from TPLO surgery, and the long-term prognosis is excellent. Many dogs are able to return to normal activity levels, including running, jumping, and even agility training.
Ready to Get Started?
Choosing to move forward with TPLO surgery is a big decision, but you’re not alone. At Blue Springs Animal Hospital, we’re here to support you every step of the way. With over 30 years of surgical experience, Dr. Joe Rodier has the skills and expertise to get your dog back on their paws—pain-free and ready to live life to the fullest.
Schedule a free consultation today and find out if TPLO surgery is the right option for your dog. Call us at (816) 229-1544 or visit our website to learn more about how we can help your dog heal.
Your pet deserves the best care, and at Blue Springs Animal Hospital, we deliver just that—every time.