Has Your Dog Been Diagnosed with a Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury?

At CVETS, we specialize in treating cranial cruciate ligament injuries with the expertise and precision needed for your dog’s full recovery. Our experienced orthopedic surgeons, advanced surgical equipment, and dedication ensure not only restored stability but also a quicker and more reliable recovery process. We are focused on compassionate care and a return to normal activities for your furry friend.

TPLO Surgery at CVETS

What is TPLO Surgery?

What is a Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury?

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The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is one of the major ligaments in a dog's knee joint, similar to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in humans. A cranial cruciate ligament injury, also known as a CCL tear or rupture, is a common orthopedic injury in dogs, particularly in larger breeds or those with certain anatomical predispositions.

What are some symptoms of a CCL Injury?

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When the CCL is injured, it can lead to instability and lameness in the affected leg. This injury can appear suddenly, such as a sudden twist or turn, or it can develop gradually over time due to degeneration of the ligament. Dogs with a CCL injury typically show signs of limping, pain, difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg, and swelling around the knee joint. Without proper treatment, which is typically surgery, a CCL injury can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, and decreased mobility in the affected limb.

What are some options to treat this injury?

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Although bracing the joint and conservative management of pain and inflammation through medication can help, often the best course of treatment is surgery—specifically a Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, or TPLO surgery.

What is Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery?

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Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery is a common procedure used to treat cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries in dogs, particularly in larger breeds or those with active lifestyles. During TPLO surgery, the surgeon alters the angle of the top portion of the tibia (the shin bone) to stabilize the knee joint and compensate for the lack of support from the torn ligament. The procedure involves making a curved cut in the tibia and rotating the top portion of the bone to achieve a level plateau. This alteration changes the mechanics of the knee joint, removing the need for the cranial cruciate ligament and providing stability during weight-bearing activities. After the bone is repositioned, it is stabilized using specialized implants such as plates and screws. Over time, the bone heals in its new position, creating a stable knee joint that allows the dog to bear weight and move more comfortably. TPLO surgery aims to restore stability to the knee joint, alleviate pain, and prevent the progression of arthritis. It typically results in a faster recovery than other surgical techniques, allowing dogs to return to normal activities more quickly. Click on the video to learn more about how the actual surgery is performed.

Understanding TPLO Surgery

FAQ

Is TPLO surgery the right option for my dog?

TPLO surgery is recommended for most dogs with CCL injuries. One of CVETS board certified orthopedic surgeons can help determine if TPLO surgery is the most appropriate treatment option based on your dog's size, age, health status, and activity level.

What are the benefits of TPLO surgery?

TPLO surgery aims to restore stability to the knee joint, alleviate pain, and prevent the progression of arthritis. It typically results in a faster and more complete recovery, including more rapid weight bearing, compared to some other surgical techniques, allowing dogs to return to normal activities more quickly.

What is the recovery process like after TPLO surgery?

The recovery process after TPLO surgery involves rest, short-term pain management, and rehabilitation exercises. Dogs typically start bearing weight on the operated leg within a few days after surgery, with gradual increases in activity over the next 8 weeks.

Are there any risks or complications associated with TPLO surgery?

While TPLO surgery is generally safe and effective, like all surgeries there are potential complications. A CVETS board certified orthopedic surgeon will discuss these during your pre-operative appointment.

How long does it take for my dog to fully recover from TPLO surgery?

The time it takes for a dog to fully recover from TPLO surgery varies depending on the individual dog, the severity of the CCL injury, and adherence to post-operative care instructions. Most dogs can return to normal activities within the following 2 months.

Recovery

The recovery process for Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery typically involves several stages, each crucial for the successful healing and rehabilitation of your dog's knee joint:

Immediate Post-Operative Care: Following TPLO surgery, your dog will likely stay one night at CVETS for monitoring and initial pain management. Pain medications, antibiotics and mild sedatives are typically prescribed to manage discomfort, help with rest and prevent infection.
Strict Rest: In the first few weeks after surgery rest is essential to allow the surgical site to heal properly. This means limiting activity to short leash walks for bathroom breaks only and preventing jumping, running, and rough play.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: CVETS orthopedic surgeons may also recommend physical therapy exercises to help strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint, improve the range of motion and speed healing. These may include passive range of motion exercises, laser therapy, gentle massage, underwater treadmill and controlled exercises to increase activity levels gradually.
Gradual Activity Increase: Over the next several weeks, your dog's activity level will gradually increase under your guidance. This typically involves slowly increasing the duration and intensity of leash walks and controlled exercises while continuing to avoid high-impact activities.
Monitoring and Follow-Up Visits: All patients are rechecked two weeks and eight following surgery before being allowed to return to regular activity.

Meet Our Orthopedic Surgeons

At CVETS, we understand the mix of anxiety and optimism that comes with seeking treatment for your beloved dog's cranial cruciate ligament injury. Our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons specializes in precisely this type of issue, ensuring that your furry friend receives the highest quality care possible. With our cutting-edge surgical equipment and expertise, we promise restored stability for your dog and a quicker and more reliable recovery process. We know how important it is for your dog to return to their normal activities as soon as possible, and at CVETS, we make that a reality. Trust in our team to provide the compassionate and skilled care your dog deserves, guiding you through every step of the journey toward their healing and well-being. Meet our Doctors:

Speak With A Surgeon

Dr. Mike Schlicksup, DACVS, MBA

Owner of CVETS/Veterinary Surgeon

Dr. Mike Schlicksup, an accomplished graduate of Ross University, pursued advanced clinical training with an internship at the North Carolina State, followed by a surgical residency at the University of Pennsylvania. He achieved diplomate status from the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), and his clinical interests include total hip replacement and fracture management. Dr. Schlicksup has contributed to research papers involving cranial cruciate ligament disease. Additionally, he cofounded CVETS in 2018 with the goal of advanced veterinary care in Columbia, SC.

Dr. Collin Wolff, DACVS

Veterinary Surgeon

Dr. Collin Wolff, an accomplished graduate of Cornell University, pursued advanced clinical training with internships at the Animal Medical Center in New York City and the Dallas Veterinary Surgical Center, followed by a surgical residency at Texas A&M University. He achieved Diplomate status from the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) and has published extensively on basic and clinical research, earning recognition from the ACVS Foundation for his work on methicillin-resistant staphylococci prevalence in dogs with orthopedic disease.

Dr. Marielle LeFloch, DACVS-SA

Veterinary Surgeon

Dr. Marielle LeFloch, an accomplished graduate of Cornell University, pursued advanced clinical training with internships and surgical residency at Ocean State Veterinary Specialists in Rhode Island. She achieved Diplomate status from the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) and her primary interests include TPLO surgery, cranial cruciate ligament disease and fracture repair.

Dr. Ashley Schick, DVM

Veterinary Surgeon

Dr. Ashley Shick, an accomplished North Carolina State University graduate, pursued advanced clinical training with internships at Cornell University and the Veterinary Specialty Hospital in San Diego, followed by a surgical residency at the University of Georgia. Her clinical interests include orthopedic surgery.

Dr. Samantha Sedgwick, DACVVA

Veterinary Anesthesiologist

Dr. Samantha Sedgwick, originally from St. Croix, earned her Bachelor's in Animal Science at the University of Tennessee while competing in track and rowing. She graduated from the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2015, followed by a prestigious internship at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital. Dr. Sedgwick completed a residency in Anesthesia and Pain Medicine at Cornell University Hospital for Animals in 2021, during which she contributed to research on critical care ventilators. She is board-certified in anesthesia and pain management. Her clinical interests include pain management, regional anesthesia, and exotic wildlife anesthesia.

Dr. Erica Dunphy, CVMMP, CVA

Rehabilitation Veterinarian

Dr. Dunphy, a veterinarian passionate about integrative medicine and rehabilitation, graduated from Ross University in 2013. With over five years of experience in integrative practice, she holds musculoskeletal ultrasound and Veterinary Medical Manipulation certifications. In 2024, she joined CVETS to lead the Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Department, offering services like laser therapy, acupuncture, underwater treadmill, and holistic medicine.

Pricing

At CVETS, we understand the financial challenges involved in treating a CCL injury, particularly with TPLO surgery. To make care more accessible and straightforward, we've introduced a comprehensive flat fee of $4000 covering everything from the initial examination to surgery and follow-up visits. We also offer flexible payment choices, such as a convenient payment plan starting with $2000 upfront and $250 per month for eight months.

Our aim is to ensure that more furry friends can receive advanced care, while alleviating the financial strain on their owners.

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Hear Pearl's Story

Dr. LeFloch, I wanted to thank you for operating on my dog, Pearl, last October. She's doing great and was cleared for hunting in December. She loves accompanying me on my duck hunting trips in the swamps, and I'm grateful for the second chance you gave her. If you're ever in the Hartsville area, my wife and I would love to see you and show you how well Pearl is doing.

Mike S

For a Quicker and More Reliable Recovery for Your Pet’s CCL Injury, Trust CVETS

If your beloved canine companion is suffering from a CCL injury, trust the experts at CVETS to guide you through the journey to recovery. With years of experience and thousands of successful orthopedic surgeries under their belt, the team at CVETS is dedicated to restoring stability and bringing back a great quality of life for your dog. From advanced surgical techniques to compassionate care, we're here to provide the highest level of treatment and support. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your furry friend get back on their feet.

Has Your Dog Been Diagnosed with a Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury?

What is TPLO Surgery?

What is a Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury?

What are some symptoms of a CCL Injury?

What are some options to treat this injury?

What is Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery?

Understanding TPLO Surgery

FAQ

Recovery

Meet Our Orthopedic Surgeons

Pricing

Hear Pearl's Story

Mike S

Mike S

For a Quicker and More Reliable Recovery for Your Pet’s CCL Injury, Trust CVETS

Contact Us