TPLO
(Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy)
in Reno, NV

When your dog suffers a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury, the resulting pain and lameness can be heartbreaking to watch. This common orthopedic injury affects thousands of dogs annually, often necessitating surgical intervention to restore mobility and prevent further joint damage.

At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, our experienced veterinary team understands the complexity of CCL injuries. It offers advanced surgical solutions, such as TPLO, to help your pet regain their quality of life. We combine our Fear-Free approach with cutting-edge orthopedic techniques to provide comprehensive care for your dog’s recovery and rehabilitation.

Which Dogs Are Candidates for TPLO?

TPLO provides superior long-term outcomes and joint stability. Our experienced surgical team evaluates each patient to ensure they receive this advanced treatment option that delivers consistently excellent results regardless of size or breed.

How Does TPLO Compare to Other Treatment Options?

While several surgical options exist for treating CCL injuries, TPLO offers distinct advantages in terms of long-term joint stability and function. Traditional repair methods attempt to replace the torn ligament, while TPLO eliminates the joint’s dependence on the ligament.

Conservative management with rest and anti-inflammatory medications may provide temporary relief, but rarely addresses the underlying instability. This approach often leads to progressive joint deterioration and chronic pain, making surgical intervention the preferred choice for most cases.

What Should You Expect During Your Dog’s TPLO Procedure?

The TPLO procedure involves precise surgical techniques that require advanced training and specialized equipment. Our surgical team performs a thorough preoperative evaluation to ensure your dog is an appropriate candidate for the procedure.

During surgery, we make a carefully planned cut in the tibia and rotate the tibial plateau to achieve the optimal angle. A specially designed bone plate secures the bone in its new position, enabling proper healing and maintaining joint stability. The entire procedure typically takes 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

Preoperative Preparation

Before surgery, your dog undergoes comprehensive blood work and imaging studies to assess their overall health and plan the procedure. We provide detailed preoperative instructions to ensure your pet arrives in optimal condition for surgery.

Postoperative Care and Monitoring

Immediately following surgery, your dog remains under careful observation as they recover from anesthesia. We provide comprehensive pain management protocols to ensure your pet’s comfort throughout the recovery process.

How Long Is Recovery After TPLO Surgery?

Recovery after TPLO surgery is a structured process that focuses on gradual healing and a safe return to activity. Each stage of recovery is essential, and following your veterinarian’s guidance will help support long-term success.

Most dogs begin to show noticeable improvement within a few weeks after surgery. Full recovery, including bone healing and restored joint function, typically takes between 8 and 12 weeks. Some dogs may need up to 3 to 4 months to fully recover and return to regular activity.

Key Recovery Milestones After TPLO Surgery

During recovery, activity restrictions and progress checks help ensure proper healing. Here’s what to expect in the first few months:

• Weeks 1–2: Strict rest and leash-only bathroom breaks. No jumping or stairs
• Weeks 3–8: Gradual increase in controlled activity with regular follow-up visits
• Week 9 and beyond: Slowly return to more active routines under veterinary supervision

Your veterinarian will tailor activity levels to your dog’s healing pace and monitor progress using follow-up exams and radiographs.

Monitoring Your Pet’s Comfort and Progress During Recovery

During recovery, we carefully manage pain, monitor incision healing, and address any concerns that may arise. Our team at Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care remains in close communication throughout your dog’s recovery to ensure the best possible outcome.

What Are the Success Rates and Long-Term Outcomes?

TPLO surgery boasts excellent success rates, with studies showing that 90-95% of dogs return to normal or near-normal function following the procedure. Most pets experience significant pain relief and improved mobility within weeks of surgery.

Long-term studies have demonstrated that dogs undergoing TPLO surgery maintain better joint function and experience less progression of arthritis compared to those treated with conservative management. The American College of Veterinary Surgeons recognizes TPLO as the gold standard treatment for cranial cruciate ligament injuries in dogs.

While TPLO surgery is generally safe, potential complications can include infection, implant failure, or delayed bone healing. Our experienced surgical team takes extensive precautions to minimize these risks through proper surgical technique and comprehensive postoperative care.

Schedule Your Pet’s TPLO Consultation Today

TPLO surgery represents an advanced solution for dogs suffering from cranial cruciate ligament injuries, offering the potential for full return to activity and improved quality of life. At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we combine surgical excellence with compassionate care to guide your pet through every step of the recovery process.

If you suspect your dog may have injured their cruciate ligament or if you’re considering TPLO surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced veterinary team. Call us at (775) 853-6900 or request an appointment at any of our locations to discuss your pet’s individual needs and learn more about how we can help restore their mobility through our comprehensive orthopedic services.