TPLO Cruciate Surgery for Dogs
At Pittwater Animal Hospital, we provide a comprehensive, all-inclusive package for TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) surgery, a highly successful surgical option for dogs with cruciate ligament injuries, including ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) damage. Our fixed-price package includes follow-up care, a full course of Cartrophen injections, and a follow-up x-ray 6 weeks post-surgery to monitor healing.
Dr. Eugene Buffa, a specialist surgeon, performs the TPLO surgery here at PAH, using advanced techniques to remodel the knee joint for optimal stability. TPLO surgery reshapes the lower knee bone (tibia) and secures it with a permanent implant to support your dog’s knee long-term.
Fixed Price Surgical Package
Our TPLO surgery package is all-inclusive, covering:
- Pre-anaesthetic blood tests to assess general health and safety for surgery
- Anaesthesia and surgical procedure
- IV fluids, pain relief, and pre and post surgery antibiotics
- In-hospital care, Cartrophen injection course, and suture removal
- Pre- and post-surgery x-rays on the day of surgery, plus a follow-up x-ray at 6 weeks to ensure proper healing.
- All standard rechecks at PAH
Please inquire with our team about the fixed-price option for your pet’s surgery.
Overnight Care
Most dogs return home the same evening; however, if overnight monitoring is needed, we offer transfer to NEVS for $380. This includes transport, overnight care, and return to PAH for a mid-morning discharge.
Pre-Surgery Instructions
- Prior to surgery, your pet will undergo a general anaesthetic and stifle x-ray to assess any complications, evaluate the extent of arthritis, and assist in planning for implant sizing. This pre-surgical assessment is available at a separate, fixed price.
- We’ll reach out the day before surgery to confirm details and review instructions. Please ensure your contact information is up-to-date, and be prepared to answer any calls from PAH, as some adjustments may be made at short notice.
Day of Surgery
Dr. Buffa and his team will perform the surgery in our dedicated surgical theatre. One of our veterinary nurses will carefully monitor all aspects of anaesthesia and recovery under our veterinarians’ supervision. A leg nerve block is applied during surgery to provide pain relief through the first night, though this may temporarily affect mobility.
After Surgery Care
Your dog will be sent home with detailed post-surgery instructions, pain relief, and antibiotics. For the best recovery:
- Strictly limit activity for the first 8-10 weeks, as outlined in our information package.
- Keep sutures and adhesive dressings intact for suture removal 10 days post-surgery.
- Complete the follow-up Cartrophen course, which helps protect joint health and minimize future arthritis. A repeat course each year is recommended for ongoing support.
If you notice any issues after surgery, call our reception at 9913 7979. For concerns after hours, contact NEVS at 9452 2933 and mention that Dr. Eugene performed surgery at PAH.
Follow-Up
At the 6 week mark, we’ll perform an x-ray to confirm the stability of the implant and progress of healing. Full recovery can take 3-6 months, but the outcomes with TPLO surgery are often excellent, providing superior long-term support for your pet’s knee.
Learn More and Book
If you’d like to discuss TPLO surgery options, please make an appointment with Dr. Jill King. For details on other joint health options, see our Arthritis page.
Email reception@pittvets.au for further details or call us at 9913 7979.
Please read all the fact sheets below before you book in for surgery.
Fact Sheet – Specialist Client Consent Form
Fact Sheet – TPLO Discharge Instructions
Fact Sheet – Crate Hire Brochure
Fact Sheet – Kristine Edwards – Physio
