How Long Does TPLO Surgery Take for Dogs?

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we often get asked, “How long does TPLO surgery take?” While the surgery itself typically takes 1 to 2 hours, the entire process takes about half a day to ensure your pet receives the best care before, during, and after the procedure.

TPLO surgery is a highly specialized procedure that requires careful preparation, a skilled surgical team, and thorough post-operative monitoring. Here’s a closer look at what happens on the day of surgery.

The TPLO Surgery Process: What to Expect

1️ Hospital Admission & Pre-Surgical Examination
Your dog will be admitted to our hospital in the morning, where they will receive a full physical examination to assess their overall health.

2️ Preoperative Bloodwork
Before anesthesia, we perform blood tests to check internal organ function, ensuring your pet is healthy enough for surgery.

3️ Pre-Surgical Preparation

  • We keep your pet warm and comfortable before surgery, which helps maintain their body temperature and supports a smoother recovery.
  • Tranquilizers and anesthesia are administered to ensure a safe and controlled sedation process.

4️ Surgical Site Preparation

  • The fur around the knee is carefully clipped for sterility.
  • The leg is thoroughly sterilized to minimize infection risk.

5️ TPLO Surgery
The tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) surgery is performed by our expert veterinary team. This involves making a precise cut in the tibia, adjusting the angle of the knee joint, and stabilizing it with a stainless steel plate and screws.

6️ Post-Surgical X-Rays
After surgery, we take X-rays to confirm that the implant is positioned correctly, ensuring the best possible outcome for your pet.

7️ Recovery & Monitoring

  • Your pet is closely monitored by a dedicated veterinary nurse as they wake up from anesthesia.
  • Pain management is carefully provided to keep them comfortable and stress-free.

Why We Recommend an Overnight Stay

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we strongly believe that the first 24 hours post-surgery are critical for pain control and monitoring. This is why our TPLO surgery package includes an overnight hospital stay on a painkiller drip.

Rather than managing your pet’s discomfort at home, they will rest comfortably in our hospital, receiving 24-hour professional care to ensure they wake up pain-free and ready to go home in better condition the next day.

Why TPLO Surgery Requires a Skilled Veterinary Team

While the surgery itself is just one part of the process, it takes a well-trained and highly coordinated veterinary team to ensure a smooth experience. From pre-surgical assessments to post-operative recovery, we focus on:

  • Ensuring safety and comfort throughout the process
  • Providing expert surgical care with precision
  • Offering a smooth and stress-free recovery for your pet

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to exceptional orthopedic care for your pets. If your dog is experiencing lameness, knee pain, or a cruciate ligament injury, contact us today to discuss whether TPLO surgery is the right option for them.

Call Sandringham Veterinary Hospital on 03 9598 7848 today to book a consultation!

How Much Does TPLO Surgery Cost for a Dog?

The cost of TPLO surgery in Melbourne can range from $3,000 to $8,000 AUD, but what’s included in that price varies greatly between clinics. Lower-cost options often do not include essential services such as blood tests, X-rays, rechecks, or post-operative medications, which can lead to unexpected additional costs.

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we provide a fully inclusive TPLO surgery package for $4,000 AUD, ensuring your dog receives the highest standard of care with no hidden fees.

What’s Included in Our TPLO Surgery Package?

Hospitalization with an overnight stay on a painkiller drip
Pain management is crucial in the first 24 hours. Instead of managing discomfort at home, your pet will rest comfortably overnight, allowing them to go home the next day in a much better condition.

Preoperative blood tests
Checks vital organ function before anesthesia, ensuring your pet is fit for surgery.

Anesthesia with intravenous (IV) fluids
Provides safe, monitored anesthesia to maintain hydration and support circulation.

Surgical repair of the cruciate ligament
Performed by our expert veterinary surgeons using a stainless steel plate and screws for long-term stability.

Antibiotics, painkillers, and anti-inflammatories while in hospital
Helps prevent infection and ensures effective pain relief post-surgery.

Anti-inflammatory medication to take home
Supports ongoing comfort and recovery.

Four postoperative check-ups with a veterinary nurse
Allows us to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.

Sedation and postoperative X-rays at 6 weeks
Confirms proper healing of the implant, ensuring long-term success.

Why Choose Sandringham Veterinary Hospital for TPLO Surgery?

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we believe comprehensive post-surgical care is just as important as the surgery itself. Our all-inclusive approach ensures your dog receives everything they need for a smooth, comfortable recovery—without surprise costs.

If your dog is experiencing lameness, knee pain, or mobility issues, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced veterinary team is here to help your pet get back to a happy, active life.

Call Sandringham Veterinary Hospital today to book an appointment!

What is a Cruciate Ligament Tear in Dogs?

Understanding Cruciate Ligament Tears in Dogs

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we frequently treat dogs experiencing lameness caused by a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear. This common orthopedic injury affects the knee joint, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Just like in humans, dogs rely on their cruciate ligament for knee stability, and when it tears—either partially or completely—it can significantly impact their quality of life.

What Causes a Cruciate Ligament Tear in Dogs?

A CCL tear in dogs can result from:

  • Sudden injury (such as twisting, jumping, or running on uneven surfaces)
  • Degenerative ligament weakening over time
  • Obesity, which adds excessive strain to the knee joint
  • Genetic predisposition, particularly in large-breed and active dogs

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

Certain breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, and Boxers, are more susceptible to cruciate ligament injuries. However, any dog—regardless of breed, age, or activity level—can develop a CCL tear, especially if they are overweight or prone to high-impact movement.

Signs Your Dog May Have a Cruciate Ligament Tear

If your dog is experiencing a CCL injury, you may notice:

  • Sudden limping or favoring one leg
  • Stiffness or difficulty getting up, especially after rest
  • Swelling around the knee joint
  • Reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs
  • A noticeable “toe-touching” stance where they avoid placing full weight on the affected leg

Treatment Options for CCL Tears

Early intervention is key to preventing further joint damage. At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we offer comprehensive CCL tear treatments, including:

  • Medical management: Anti-inflammatory medication, weight control, and physiotherapy for minor or early-stage cases.
  • Advanced surgical options: Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO), the gold standard in dog knee surgery, effectively restores stability and function to the joint.
  • Rehabilitation and aftercare plans to ensure a smooth recovery.

Why Choose Sandringham Veterinary Hospital for CCL Tear Treatment?

As a trusted veterinary hospital in Sandringham, our experienced team specializes in orthopedic care and cruciate ligament repair for dogs. We use the latest diagnostic tools and surgical techniques to provide tailored treatment plans that help your pet regain mobility and live a happy, active life.

If you suspect your dog has a cruciate ligament tear, don’t wait, contact Sandringham Veterinary Hospital today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help your pet every step of the way!