Why Do Dogs Need TPLO Surgery? Exploring the Common Causes
Dogs are playful and full of energy, but their active nature can sometimes lead to injuries. One of the most common orthopaedic issues they face is a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury, which affects the knee joint and causes pain and limping. Many dogs have Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery to help them move better and stop further joint damage. This procedure helps them walk, run, and play again without discomfort. CCL injuries can happen for several reasons, including genetics, excessive activity, or ageing. Understanding the causes can help dog owners take preventive steps to keep their pets healthy and active. TPLO surgery is often the best option for ensuring a full recovery and long-term joint stability.
Understanding the Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL)
In dogs, the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is an important part of the knee (stifle) joint. It helps keep the joint stable by preventing too much movement between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). The knee becomes unstable when this ligament gets injured, causing pain, limping, and further damage.
A dog’s CCL works like a human’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Athletes often tear their ACL from sudden twisting movements, and dogs can suffer similar injuries while running, jumping, or making quick turns. However, unlike humans, dogs are more likely to develop CCL injuries gradually due to wear and tear, genetics, or ageing rather than just from a sudden accident.
How Do Injuries Occur?
CCL injuries occur when too much force or stress is placed on the ligament. This can happen due to sudden accidents, repeated strain, or joint problems. Running, jumping, or quick turns can put extra pressure on the knee. Once the CCL is damaged, dogs feel pain, limp, and struggle to put weight on the injured leg. The condition can worsen without proper treatment, leading to arthritis and long-term mobility issues.
Common Causes of CCL Injury Leading to TPLO
Degenerative Changes:
Unlike humans, where ACL injuries often result from acute trauma, the most common causes of TPLO in dogs stem from slow, degenerative changes. Over time, the ligament weakens due to genetics, age, and wear and tear. This degeneration makes it more susceptible to rupture, even during everyday activities like walking or playing.
Traumatic Incidents:
Although less common, sudden trauma can also lead to CCL rupture. This occurs when dogs make abrupt movements, slip on a wet surface, jump from a height, or experience an accident. High-energy breeds enjoying running and rough play are likelier to suffer these injuries.
Conformation and Breed Predisposition:
Some dog breeds are more likely to have CCL injuries due to their genetics. Large and giant breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Boxers, and Newfoundlands, have a higher risk of ligament wear and tears over time. The structure of its knee joint makes it more susceptible to instability, increasing the likelihood of a dog needing TPLO surgery.
Excessive Weight and Obesity:
Obesity is a significant contributor to ligament injuries in dogs. Excess body weight strains the knee joints, accelerating ligament deterioration. Overweight dogs are at higher risk of ligament rupture and experience longer recovery times post-surgery.
Activity Level and Lifestyle:
Dogs with either extremely high or low activity levels can develop CCL injuries. Active dogs engaging in intense exercise, agility training, or rough play may overstrain their ligaments. Conversely, sedentary dogs with weak muscles and poor joint support are also at risk. Balancing activity levels helps maintain joint health and prevents injuries.
Underlying Joint or Health Issues:
Pre-existing joint conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, or autoimmune disorders can weaken the CCL. Inflammatory joint diseases cause instability and increased wear on the ligament, making rupture more likely. Finding and treating these issues early can help avoid the need for surgery.
Why TPLO Is Often the Chosen Treatment
TPLO surgery for a dog changes how the knee joint moves by adjusting the tibial plateau angle. This prevents excessive shifting between the femur and tibia, stabilizing the joint without the damaged ligament. By correcting this, TPLO surgery for a dog helps restore normal movement, reduce pain, and support a quicker return to an active lifestyle than other treatments. It also decreases the risk of future joint problems, such as arthritis, ensuring long-term mobility and comfort.
Alternative Procedures
While TPLO is one of the most effective treatments, there are other surgical options:
- Lateral Suture (Extracapsular Repair): A simpler procedure that works best for smaller dogs but is less effective for larger breeds.
- TightRope Procedure: Uses strong artificial fibres to stabilise the joint, offering a minimally invasive option.
- Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA): Changes how the patellar tendon works instead of adjusting the tibia’s angle.
Each method has benefits, but TPLO surgery remains the top choice for active and large-breed dogs due to its strong, lasting results and lower risk of complications.
Diagnosing a CCL Injury
A CCL injury can cause noticeable signs that affect a dog’s movement and comfort. Some common symptoms include:
- Limping or not putting weight on one leg
- Trouble standing up, running, or jumping
- Stiffness, especially after resting or sleeping
- Swelling around the knee joint
- A clicking or popping sound when moving
Dogs with a CCL injury may also become less active, avoid playing, or show signs of pain when the affected leg is touched. If not treated, the problem can get worse, causing arthritis and more damage to the joint.
Veterinary Evaluation
A veterinarian will check for joint instability by performing hands-on tests, such as cranial drawer and tibial thrust tests. These tests help determine if the ligament is torn. X-rays or advanced imaging, like MRI, may be used to see the extent of the injury and rule out other knee problems. If the damage is severe, the vet may recommend TPLO surgery as the best option to restore mobility and prevent long-term complications.
Preventive Measures and Early Intervention
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to protect a dog from CCL injuries. Excess weight stresses the joints, increasing the risk of ligament damage. A balanced diet with high-quality nutrients, proper portion control, and limited treats helps maintain a healthy weight. Regular weigh-ins and vet guidance can ensure dogs stay within a safe range, reducing joint strain and improving overall mobility.
Moderate, Consistent Exercise
Consistent exercise helps strengthen the muscles around the knee, making injuries less likely. Daily walks, swimming, and controlled play help maintain joint stability. Sudden movements, excessive jumping, or rough play should be avoided, as they can strain the ligament. Tailoring exercise routines based on a dog’s breed, size, and age ensures safe activity while keeping the joints strong and flexible.
Routine Vet Check-Ups
Routine vet visits help catch early signs of joint problems before they get worse. Vets can assess mobility, check for stiffness or swelling, and recommend treatments like joint supplements, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes. Early intervention can slow down joint degeneration and reduce the chances of surgery. Staying proactive with preventive care ensures long-term joint health and keeps dogs active and pain-free.
Conclusion
CCL injuries cause lameness in dogs, often requiring TPLO surgery to restore mobility and prevent further joint damage. Understanding the causes of TPLO in dogs, including degenerative changes, obesity, and trauma, helps pet owners take proactive steps in prevention. Keeping a healthy weight, doing regular but gentle exercise, and visiting the vet early can greatly lower the risk of ligament injuries. Regular check-ups, joint supplements, and controlled physical activity support long-term joint health. By taking these precautions, dog owners can help their pets stay active, minimize pain, and improve their overall quality of life.
FAQs
How common is TPLO failure in dogs?
TPLO surgery has a high success rate, with over 90% regaining near-normal mobility. However, complications like infections, implant failure, or improper healing can occur. While TPLO failure in dogs is rare, following post-surgery care and veterinary advice helps ensure a smooth recovery and long-term joint stability.
What causes cranial cruciate ligament injuries in dogs?
The causes of TPLO in dogs often include degenerative ligament changes, trauma, obesity, and breed predisposition. Over time, wear and tear weaken the ligament, increasing the risk of injury. Sudden movements, excessive weight, or existing joint problems further contribute to CCL injuries, making prevention and early detection essential for long-term mobility.
How do I know if my dog needs TPLO?
A veterinary evaluation is crucial if your dog is limping, avoiding weight on one leg, or showing signs of knee instability. X-rays and physical tests, such as the cranial drawer test, will confirm if TPLO surgery is the best treatment. Early diagnosis improves recovery chances and prevents further joint damage.