At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we frequently perform Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery to treat cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries in dogs. TPLO is a highly effective surgical procedure that stabilizes the knee joint after a cruciate ligament rupture, allowing dogs to regain mobility and live pain-free.
Why TPLO Surgery Is Different from Human ACL Repairs
In humans, a similar injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is typically treated by replacing the ligament with a graft. However, ligament replacement does not work in dogs due to the unique size and shape of the canine knee joint. Instead, TPLO is a superior alternative that changes the way the joint functions without altering the natural movement of the leg.
How Does TPLO Surgery Work?
Unlike other surgical techniques, TPLO is the only procedure that can be customized to all dog breeds, leg shapes, and sizes. The surgery involves reshaping the tibial plateau (the top part of the shinbone) to modify the angle at which forces are applied to the knee joint. This adjustment stabilizes the joint without requiring the damaged ligament, helping to reduce pain and improve movement.
Which Dogs Benefit Most from TPLO?
TPLO surgery is particularly beneficial for:
- Large-breed and active dogs prone to CCL injuries
- Dogs experiencing chronic knee pain and lameness
- Dogs with significant cruciate ligament tears that won’t heal with conservative management
Why Choose Sandringham Veterinary Hospital for TPLO Surgery?
If your dog is showing signs of a CCL injury, such as limping, stiffness, or difficulty standing, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, our experienced veterinary team specializes in TPLO surgery and post-operative care to ensure the best recovery outcomes for your pet.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see if TPLO surgery is the right option for your dog!
How Much Does TPLO Surgery Cost?
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!