# TPLO Surgery for Dogs: Cruciate Tear Recovery Timeline and Success Rate


## Key Takeaways

- TPLO surgery aims to stabilize the canine stifle joint by altering the tibial plateau angle (TPA), neutralizing forces that cause cranial tibial subluxation following cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture.
- The typical recovery timeline involves initial improvement within 2-4 weeks, significant functional return in 3-6 months, and full remodeling potentially taking up to a year, with most dogs achieving good to excellent outcomes.
- Overall complication rates are relatively low, with major complications occurring in approximately 10% of cases; however, surgical site infections (SSIs) can range from 4.9% to 13%, and meniscal tears remain a significant concern.
- Patient factors such as age, weight, and concurrent injuries (e.g., meniscal tears, which are associated with increased body weight and age) significantly influence recovery and complication risk.
- Postoperative management is critical and includes strict activity restriction, multi-modal pain management (NSAIDs, opioids, gabapentin), and controlled rehabilitation, with adjunctive therapies like stem cell secretomes showing promise in improving lameness and reducing osteoarthritis progression.
- Monitoring recovery can involve biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) for inflammation and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) for joint remodeling, aiding in early detection of complications like infection.

---

If your [dog](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/dog) has been diagnosed with a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear, you are likely facing a decision about surgery. Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) is one of the most common and successful surgical procedures for this injury. This article provides a source-grounded overview of what to expect, from diagnosis through recovery, and what the veterinary literature says about success rates. **The short answer is that most dogs recover well, with a return to comfortable function within three to six months, and the overall complication rate is relatively low.** However, the timeline and outcome depend on many individual factors, including your dog's age, weight, and any additional injuries like meniscal tears.

This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment.

## At a Glance: TPLO for Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture

| Feature | Summary |
| :--- | :--- |
| **What is it?** | A surgical procedure that changes the angle of the tibial plateau to neutralize the forces that cause the knee (stifle) joint to slip forward during weight-bearing. |
| **Goal** | To provide functional stability to the stifle joint without relying on the damaged CCL. |
| **Typical Recovery Time** | Early improvement in 2-4 weeks; significant return to function in 3-6 months; full recovery can take up to a year. |
| **Success Rate** | High, with most owners reporting good to excellent outcomes. Major complications are uncommon. |
| **Key Risks** | Surgical site infection (around 5-13%), meniscal injury, and implant-related issues. |
| **Alternative Surgeries** | Tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA), lateral fabellar suture (extracapsular), and others. |

## Understanding the Cranial Cruciate Ligament and Its Rupture

The cranial cruciate ligament is a key stabilizer of the stifle joint, which is the canine equivalent of the human knee. It connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) and prevents the tibia from sliding forward relative to the femur. When this ligament tears, the joint becomes unstable, leading to pain, lameness, and the development of osteoarthritis [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>][<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].

Cranial cruciate ligament disease (CCLD) is a degenerative process, not just an acute injury. In many dogs, the ligament weakens over time before it eventually ruptures [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. This is why a seemingly minor slip or jump can cause a complete tear in a predisposed dog. The rupture can be partial or complete, and it often occurs in both stifles over time [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].

The instability caused by a CCL tear leads to a "drawer sign" or "tibial thrust," where the tibia slides forward when the dog bears weight. This abnormal movement is what TPLO surgery aims to correct.

## What is TPLO Surgery?

Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) is a surgical procedure that involves cutting the tibia bone and rotating the top portion (the tibial plateau) to change its angle. The goal is to reduce the tibial plateau angle (TPA) to a more functional level, typically around 5 degrees [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>][<a href="#ref-5">5</a>]. By leveling the plateau, the forces that cause the tibia to thrust forward during weight-bearing are neutralized, making the joint functionally stable even without the CCL [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].

The procedure is performed using a bone saw and specialized equipment, and the rotated bone is held in place with a metal plate and screws [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>]. TPLO is considered the current standard of care for CCLD in many practices [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>][<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].

### TPLO vs. Other Surgical Options

While TPLO is very popular, it is not the only option. Other surgical techniques include:

- **Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA):** This procedure also aims to neutralize the forces on the stifle but does so by moving the tibial tuberosity forward. A 2026 review found minimal evidence to conclude that either TPLO or TTA is superior in reducing the rate of postoperative osteoarthritis progression [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>].
- **Lateral Fabellar Suture (LFS) / Extracapsular Repair:** This is an older technique that uses a heavy suture placed outside the joint to mimic the function of the CCL. It is often used in smaller dogs but can be less effective in larger, more active dogs [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].
- **Combined Techniques:** Recent trends favor combining techniques to optimize outcomes. For example, TPLO may be combined with a lateral fabellotibial suture (LFTS) in cases where additional stabilization is needed, such as when a pivot shift phenomenon is observed postoperatively [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>]. TPLO can also be combined with tibial tuberosity transposition (TTT) to treat concurrent medial patellar luxation (MPL) in small-breed dogs [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].

Your veterinary surgeon will recommend the best option based on your dog's size, age, activity level, and the specific characteristics of the injury.

## The Evidence Base: Success Rates and Outcomes

The success of TPLO is well-documented in the veterinary literature. Success can be measured in several ways: owner satisfaction, return to function, radiographic healing, and the absence of complications.

### Overall Success and Complication Rates

A large retrospective study of 555 dogs (670 stifles) undergoing high tibial osteotomy (which includes TPLO) found that complications occurred in 20.0% of stifles [<a href="#ref-8">8</a>]. These were broken down into:
- Minor complications: 7.5%
- Surgical complications: 10.3%
- Medical complications: 3.4% [<a href="#ref-8">8</a>]

This means that 80% of surgeries had no reported complications in the immediate postoperative period. A separate study focusing on infection found the prevalence of infection following TPLO to be 13% [<a href="#ref-9">9</a>]. However, a more recent study comparing different antibiotic protocols found much lower surgical site infection (SSI) rates of 4.9% and 5.9% [<a href="#ref-10">10</a>]. The difference may be due to varying definitions of infection and follow-up periods.

### Long-Term Functional Outcomes

Most dogs return to good function after TPLO. In a study of 236 stifles treated without stifle exploration, the rate of late lameness (acute lameness after expected recovery) was 15.7%, occurring at a median of 141 days postoperatively [<a href="#ref-11">11</a>]. Importantly, most of these cases (24 of 37) resolved with nonsurgical, meniscal-sparing management. Only 5.5% of all stifles required a subsequent meniscectomy [<a href="#ref-11">11</a>].

### Radiographic Healing and Stability

Successful TPLO surgery achieves a stable postoperative tibial plateau angle. A study on small-breed dogs found that the TPA remained stable over a mean follow-up of 12.6 months, with an average change of only 0.52 degrees, which is within the range of measurement error [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>]. This indicates that the surgical correction is durable over time.

Another study looked at the popliteal sesamoid, a small bone in the stifle. Its displacement was seen in 14.4% of cases preoperatively and was associated with more severe cranial tibial subluxation. After TPLO, this displacement resolved in 100% of cases, confirming that the surgery effectively reduces abnormal joint movement [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>].

## The Recovery Timeline: A Week-by-Week Guide

The recovery from TPLO is a gradual process that requires strict owner compliance. The timeline can be broken down into phases.

### Immediate Postoperative Period (Days 0-3)

- **Hospital Stay:** Your dog will typically stay in the hospital for one to two nights after surgery to manage pain and monitor recovery.
- **Ambulation:** Many dogs can walk on the operated limb shortly after recovery from anesthesia. In a case series of three dogs, two were able to ambulate on the operated limb within one hour of recovery [<a href="#ref-13">13</a>]. However, this is not universal, and your dog may be reluctant to bear weight initially.
- **Swelling Management:** Postoperative swelling is normal. A 2026 study found that kinesiology taping applied in a double-lymphatic pattern significantly reduced stifle swelling at 24 hours post-surgery compared to no taping [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>]. Your veterinary team may use this or other methods to manage swelling.
- **Pain Management:** Your dog will be sent home with a multi-modal pain management plan. This often includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and gabapentin [<a href="#ref-15">15</a>].

### Early Recovery (Week 1-2)

- **Activity Restriction:** Strict rest is crucial. This means no running, jumping, or playing. Your dog should only be allowed outside on a leash for short, controlled bathroom breaks.
- **Wound Care:** You will need to check the surgical incision daily for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge. A study on antibiotic protocols suggests that perioperative antibiotics alone are sufficient to keep infection rates low, so you may not need to give oral antibiotics at home [<a href="#ref-10">10</a>].
- **Rehabilitation:** Physical therapy can begin early. This may include passive range of motion exercises to help maintain joint flexibility.
- **Pain and Inflammation:** Your veterinarian will likely recommend a recheck around 10-14 days post-surgery to assess healing and remove sutures.

### Intermediate Recovery (Week 3-6)

- **Bone Healing:** This is the period when the osteotomy (bone cut) begins to heal. Radiographic healing is a key milestone. A 2025 study on low-level laser therapy (LLLT) found weak evidence that it improves radiographic bone healing compared to no treatment [<a href="#ref-16">16</a>]. The bone healing is primarily dependent on the surgical stabilization and the body's natural processes.
- **Gradual Increase in Activity:** You can slowly increase the duration of leash walks, but they should remain short and controlled. The goal is to build muscle without overstressing the healing bone.
- **Lameness:** Many dogs will be noticeably less lame by this point. A study on ADSC-enriched secretome found that the treated group had improved lameness scores as early as 15 days postoperatively, while the control group only showed similar improvement at 60 days [<a href="#ref-17">17</a>]. This suggests that adjunctive therapies can potentially accelerate early recovery.

### Late Recovery (Week 6-12)

- **Return to Function:** Most dogs are bearing significant weight on the operated limb by this time. A combined TPLO and TTT study found that lameness grade improved from a median of 3/5 preoperatively to 1/5 at the 6-12 week follow-up [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].
- **Recheck Appointment:** Your vet will likely take radiographs at 8 weeks to confirm bone healing is progressing well.
- **Controlled Exercise:** You can begin more structured rehabilitation, such as swimming or walking on an underwater treadmill, if available.

### Long-Term Recovery (Month 3-12)

- **Full Return to Activity:** It can take up to a year for the bone to fully remodel and for the dog to regain complete strength. A study on long-term monitoring of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) found that certain markers in the synovial fluid significantly decreased over 6 months, indicating a reduction in joint inflammation and remodeling [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>].
- **Ongoing Osteoarthritis:** It is important to understand that TPLO does not cure osteoarthritis. It is a salvage procedure that stabilizes the joint. The existing arthritis will continue to progress, although at a slower rate [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>]. A study found that while osteoarthritis progressed in the control group, it actually decreased in a group treated with an intra-articular stem cell secretome [<a href="#ref-17">17</a>]. This highlights the potential for future adjunctive therapies.

## Factors Affecting the Recovery Timeline and Success

Several factors can influence how quickly and how well your dog recovers.

### Patient Factors

- **Age and Weight:** A 2026 study found that for each increase in year of age, there was a 23.9% decrease in the odds of having an initial meniscal tear. Conversely, each additional kilogram of body weight increased the odds of an initial meniscal tear by 2.7% [<a href="#ref-18">18</a>]. Heavier dogs are also at higher risk for complications in general.
- **Concurrent Injuries:** The presence of a meniscal tear at the time of surgery can affect the outcome. The medial meniscus is often damaged when the CCL ruptures. While some surgeons prefer to explore the joint, a study showed that a meniscal-sparing approach without arthrotomy can be very successful, with a low late meniscectomy rate of 5.5% [<a href="#ref-11">11</a>].
- **Concurrent Conditions:** Dogs with medial patellar luxation (MPL) can be treated with a combined TPLO and TTT procedure. A study on this combined approach found it to be feasible, with good outcomes, though the complication rate was higher than for TPLO alone [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].

### Surgical Factors

- **Surgeon Experience:** The skill of the surgeon is a major factor. A study on machine learning prediction of complications found that the PROSPECT model could predict complications with high accuracy (91.9-94.3%), but this is a tool to aid decision-making, not a guarantee [<a href="#ref-8">8</a>].
- **Implant Choice:** The type of plate and screws used can matter. A study on computed tomography (CT) found that a precontoured plate with an anatomical design allowed for predictable medialization of the tibial segment in small-breed dogs [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>].
- **Postoperative Instability:** In rare cases, TPLO alone may not be sufficient to stabilize the joint. A case report described a toy-breed dog that experienced a pivot shift phenomenon after TPLO, which was successfully corrected with an additional lateral fabellotibial suture [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].

### Postoperative Management

- **Rehabilitation:** Active rehabilitation is critical for a successful recovery. This includes controlled exercise, physical therapy, and potentially adjunctive treatments.
- **Pain Management:** Effective pain control is essential for the dog's well-being and to encourage early weight-bearing. A study on a CBD:THC herbal extract found that all dogs, regardless of group, had marked improvements in pain and mobility, suggesting that the standard analgesic protocol is very effective [<a href="#ref-15">15</a>].
- **Adjunctive Therapies:**
    - **Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT):** The evidence for LLLT improving radiographic bone healing is weak [<a href="#ref-16">16</a>].
    - **Stem Cell Therapy:** A pilot study found that intra-articular injection of an allogeneic canine adipose-derived stem cell enriched secretome (ADSC-Se) improved lameness and reduced osteoarthritis progression compared to a placebo in the short and mid-term [<a href="#ref-17">17</a>].
    - **Kinesiology Taping:** As mentioned, this can help reduce early postoperative swelling [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>].

## Potential Complications and How They Are Managed

While TPLO is successful, it is not without risks. Being aware of potential complications helps you monitor your dog and seek prompt veterinary care.

### Surgical Site Infection (SSI)

Infection is a significant concern after any orthopedic surgery. The prevalence of infection after TPLO has been reported as high as 13% [<a href="#ref-9">9</a>]. However, a more recent study found that with proper perioperative antibiotic use, the rate can be as low as 4.9% [<a href="#ref-10">10</a>]. This study concluded that prolonged postoperative antibiotics are not necessary and that perioperative prophylaxis is sufficient [<a href="#ref-10">10</a>]. Signs of infection include persistent swelling, redness, discharge, and pain.

### Meniscal Injury

The menisci are C-shaped cartilages in the knee that act as shock absorbers. They can be torn at the time of the CCL rupture or later. The incidence of postliminary meniscal tears is around 2% [<a href="#ref-18">18</a>]. A study found that late lameness occurred in 15.7% of stifles, but most resolved without surgery [<a href="#ref-11">11</a>].

### Implant-Related Complications

This can include loosening of screws, breakage of the plate, or irritation from the implant. A study on combined TPLO-TTT found that intraoperative complications related to a TPLO screw near the joint occurred in three cases and required replacement [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].

### Other Complications

- **Patellar Luxation:** Postoperative MPL was noted in three stifles in one study [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].
- **Patella Fracture:** A rare but serious complication [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].
- **Patella Ligament Desmitis:** Inflammation of the patellar ligament, managed conservatively [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].
- **Pivot Shift Phenomenon:** A form of rotational instability that can occur after TPLO, sometimes requiring additional surgery [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].

## Monitoring Recovery: The Role of Biomarkers

Veterinarians are increasingly using biomarkers to monitor recovery and detect complications. A 2026 study found that C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, rises significantly after TPLO and peaks on day one, then rapidly declines to baseline by day 14 [<a href="#ref-19">19</a>]. Total white blood cell (WBC) counts also rise but may remain nonspecifically elevated. This means that a persistently high CRP level beyond 14 days could be a red flag for infection, while a high WBC count alone may not be significant [<a href="#ref-19">19</a>].

Another study looked at matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are enzymes involved in tissue remodeling. It found that the activity of certain MMPs in the synovial fluid significantly decreased over the 6-month recovery period, providing a molecular marker of joint stabilization [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>].

## Pre-Surgical Planning and Diagnostics

Accurate diagnosis and planning are essential for a successful TPLO.

### Clinical Examination

The veterinarian will perform a physical exam, looking for signs of pain, swelling, and instability. The cranial drawer test and tibial compression test are specific tests used to assess CCL integrity [<a href="#ref-20">20</a>].

### Imaging

- **Radiographs (X-rays):** Standard radiographs are used to measure the tibial plateau angle (TPA) and assess the joint for osteoarthritis [<a href="#ref-20">20</a>].
- **Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):** MRI is a non-invasive alternative that provides detailed information about the CCL and other intra-articular structures like the menisci. A 2025 study found a strong correlation between TPA measurements on radiographs and a single sagittal MRI sequence, suggesting MRI could be used for surgical planning and to detect concurrent injuries [<a href="#ref-20">20</a>].
- **Computed Tomography (CT):** CT provides detailed 3D anatomical insights and is increasingly used for surgical planning, especially in complex cases or small breeds [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>][<a href="#ref-2">2</a>].

### Machine Learning in Prognosis

The future of surgical planning may include machine learning. The PROSPECT model was developed to predict postoperative complications using clinical variables. It was able to predict minor, surgical, and medical complications with high accuracy (91.9%, 92.3%, and 94.3% respectively) [<a href="#ref-8">8</a>]. While not yet in widespread clinical use, this shows the potential for personalized risk assessment.

## The Cost of TPLO Surgery

The cost of TPLO surgery is significant and varies widely based on geographic location, the complexity of the case, and the clinic. It typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 or more per knee. This cost includes the pre-surgical workup, the surgery itself, anesthesia, hospitalization, and initial pain medications. It is important to discuss the full cost estimate with your veterinary surgeon before proceeding.

## Prevention and Long-Term Management

While CCL rupture cannot always be prevented, managing risk factors can help.

- **Weight Management:** Maintaining a healthy body weight is one of the most important things you can do. Obesity increases the stress on the joints and the risk of ligament injury [<a href="#ref-18">18</a>].
- **Controlled Exercise:** Regular, moderate exercise helps maintain muscle mass and joint health without excessive stress.
- **Joint Supplements:** While not a substitute for surgery, joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin may help support joint health, though their efficacy is debated.

After surgery, long-term management focuses on managing osteoarthritis. This includes:
- **Weight Control:** This is paramount.
- **Moderate Exercise:** Regular, low-impact exercise like swimming or leash walks helps maintain mobility and muscle strength.
- **Pain Management:** As arthritis progresses, your dog may need intermittent or continuous pain medication.

## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian

This article provides a general overview based on current veterinary literature. It cannot predict the specific outcome for your individual dog. Breed, age, weight, temperament, and the presence of concurrent diseases all play a role in the recovery timeline and success rate.

**You should contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe any of the following:**

- **Sudden, severe lameness** or a complete refusal to bear weight on the operated leg after a period of improvement.
- **Swelling, redness, or discharge** from the surgical incision that is worsening or has a foul odor.
- **Vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite** that lasts for more than 24 hours.
- **Difficulty urinating or defecating.**
- **Excessive pain** that is not controlled by the prescribed medications.
- **Any sign of the surgical site opening** or the implants becoming visible.

Your veterinary team is your best resource for specific advice and support throughout the recovery process.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### 1. How long does it take for a dog to walk normally after TPLO surgery?
Most dogs will be putting some weight on the leg within a few days, but a normal gait typically develops over 8 to 12 weeks as bone healing progresses and muscle strength returns.

### 2. What is the success rate of TPLO surgery in dogs?
The success rate is high, with most owners reporting good to excellent outcomes. Major complications are relatively uncommon, occurring in about 10% of cases in one large study [<a href="#ref-8">8</a>].

### 3. How long does a dog need to be on crate rest after TPLO?
Strict crate rest is usually recommended for the first 4 to 6 weeks to protect the healing bone. After that, a gradual increase in controlled activity is allowed.

### 4. Can a dog live a normal life after TPLO surgery?
Yes, most dogs can return to a good quality of life, including walking, running, and playing. However, they will always have some degree of osteoarthritis and may be prone to stiffness, especially in cold weather.

### 5. What are the signs of a failed TPLO?
Signs of a failed TPLO include persistent lameness, swelling, pain, or instability. This can be due to infection, implant failure, or a meniscal tear.

### 6. Is TPLO better than TTA for dogs?
The evidence is currently inconclusive. A 2026 review found no significant difference between TPLO and TTA in reducing the rate of postoperative osteoarthritis progression [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>]. The best choice depends on your dog's individual anatomy and your surgeon's expertise.

### 7. How much does TPLO surgery cost?
The cost is highly variable but generally ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 or more per knee, depending on your location and the complexity of the case.

### 8. When can my dog go up and down stairs after TPLO?
Stairs should be avoided for at least 8 to 12 weeks after surgery. Even after that, you should carry your dog up and down stairs if possible, or use a ramp, to prevent sudden twisting or stress on the healing joint.

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## Sources

<a id="ref-1"></a>[<a href="#ref-1">1</a>] [Tibial plateau levelling osteotomy: significance of matrix metalloproteinases in long-term monitoring of canine stifle stabilization after cranial cruciate ligament rupture.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40099243/)

<a id="ref-2"></a>[<a href="#ref-2">2</a>] [Canine Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease (CCLD): A Concise Review of the Recent Literature.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40218423/)

<a id="ref-3"></a>[<a href="#ref-3">3</a>] [Correction of pivot shift phenomenon following tibial plateau leveling osteotomy using lateral fabellotibial suture in a toy-breed dog with cranial cruciate ligament rupture.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41036376/)

<a id="ref-4"></a>[<a href="#ref-4">4</a>] [Long-Term Radiographic Stability of Tibial Plateau Angle Following TPLO in Small-Breed Dogs: A Retrospective Study.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42510991/)

<a id="ref-5"></a>[<a href="#ref-5">5</a>] [Computed tomographic assessment of plate offset in modified tibial plateau levelling osteotomy with a precontoured plate with an anatomical design for treatment of cranial cruciate ligament rupture and medial patellar luxation in small-breed dogs: An in vitro study.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41914931/)

<a id="ref-6"></a>[<a href="#ref-6">6</a>] [In dogs with ruptured cranial cruciate ligament, is TPLO superior to TTA in reducing postoperative radiographic osteoarthritis?](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42434438/)

<a id="ref-7"></a>[<a href="#ref-7">7</a>] [Feasibility of Combined Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy and Tibial Tuberosity Transposition for Treatment of Ipsilateral Cranial Cruciate Ligament Insufficiency and Medial Patellar Luxation in Small-Breed Dogs Weighing up to 15 kg.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41453386/)

<a id="ref-8"></a>[<a href="#ref-8">8</a>] [Machine-learning prediction of postoperative complications after high tibial osteotomy for canine cranial cruciate ligament disease.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40879667/)

<a id="ref-9"></a>[<a href="#ref-9">9</a>] [Prevalence and incidence rate of infection after partial tarsal arthrodesis in 89 dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40631699/)

<a id="ref-10"></a>[<a href="#ref-10">10</a>] [Comparison of Surgical Site Infection (SSI) Rates in Dogs Undergoing Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) Using Perioperative Versus Peri- and Postoperative Antimicrobial Prophylaxis.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40267006/)

<a id="ref-11"></a>[<a href="#ref-11">11</a>] [Long-term outcome of high tibial osteotomy for canine cranial cruciate ligament disease without stifle exploration: an observational study of 236 stifles.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41604766/)

<a id="ref-12"></a>[<a href="#ref-12">12</a>] [Radiographic assessment of popliteal sesamoid position and cranial tibial subluxation in canine stifle joints undergoing TPLO: A retrospective study of 163 dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41386710/)

<a id="ref-13"></a>[<a href="#ref-13">13</a>] [Novel ultrasound-guided flags assisted WalKing block for enhanced recovery after surgery (FAWKES) in three dogs undergoing tibial plateau levelling osteotomy.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42070378/)

<a id="ref-14"></a>[<a href="#ref-14">14</a>] [Kinesiology taping with a double-lymphatic pattern reduces canine stifle joint swelling 24 hours after tibial plateau-leveling osteotomy.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41689961/)

<a id="ref-15"></a>[<a href="#ref-15">15</a>] [Efficacy of a 20:1 CBD:THC cannabis herbal extract for pain and inflammation in dogs following tibial plateau leveling osteotomy.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41090077/)

<a id="ref-16"></a>[<a href="#ref-16">16</a>] [Does LLLT improve radiographic healing for dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture undergoing TPLO surgery?](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42006389/)

<a id="ref-17"></a>[<a href="#ref-17">17</a>] [Intra-articular injection of allogeneic canine adipose-derived stem cell enriched secretome in dogs undergoing tibial plateau leveling osteotomy: a prospective double-blind and randomized pilot trial.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42287504/)

<a id="ref-18"></a>[<a href="#ref-18">18</a>] [Risk factors associated with meniscal tears at the time of and following tibial plateau leveling osteotomy surgery.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42460134/)

<a id="ref-19"></a>[<a href="#ref-19">19</a>] [Postoperative kinetics of point-of-care C-reactive protein versus total white blood cell count after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy in dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42245455/)

<a id="ref-20"></a>[<a href="#ref-20">20</a>] [May a Single Presurgical High-Field MRI Sequence Replace Standard Radiographs for TPLO Surgical Planning in Dogs?](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39777781/)

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