TPLO Procedure in Small and Medium Sized Dogs

A presentation at the 2004 ACVS Symposium in Denver outlined the successful use of the tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) procedure in small and medium size dogs. Historically, the TPLO was designed for use in large breed, active dogs, but because of the success in the larger breeds, surgeons have begun to lower the weight range in which the TPLO is offered as a treatment option for ACL tears.

At the DVSC, we have observed good to excellent outcomes with the TPLO in small to medium sized dogs. Many of these smaller breeds were presented to us with failure of an extracapsular technique. The smaller breeds tend to have steeper tibial slopes, and more limb alignment problems, such as tibial torsion and tibial or femoral varus deformities.

The mini TPLO system, used on small breeds, utilizes 12 and 18 mm saw blades and 2.0/2.7 mm plates and screws. We have found surgery on the smaller dogs to be more technically demanding, but have been pleased with the outcome. We feel that when presented with a small to medium sized patient with an ACL injury, the veterinarian must consider the size of the pet, activity level and intended function. Discussion with the owner regarding treatment should include both extracapsular and TPLO options.

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