Thinking about the Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) procedure for your pet can be a daunting experience. Whether your dog has a torn cruciate ligament or is suffering from lameness, the prospect of surgery can be overwhelming.
Understanding what is involved in the TPLO procedure can help ease your concerns and provide clarity on the comprehensive care your pet will receive.
The TPLO procedure is a surgical technique used to stabilize the stifle joint after a rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (similar to the ACL in humans). It is the most common procedure used to restore function for this problem. Here’s a breakdown of what is included in the TPLO procedure at Sugar Land Veterinary Specialists & Emergency:
1. A Comprehensive Examination and Consultation
This includes a thorough examination of your pet and a face-to-face consultation with the doctor to discuss the surgery and address any concerns or questions you may have.
2. Preoperative Labs
Before the surgery, preoperative labs are conducted, including a blood panel, clotting evaluation, and urinalysis if needed. These tests ensure your pet is healthy for the procedure.
3. Diagnostic Imaging
X-rays are taken on the day of surgery for measurement and ensuring the procedure’s success.
4. Anesthesia Time and Operating Supplies
This covers all the items and care your pet will receive on the day of surgery. It includes a dedicated veterinary technician to monitor your pet, equipment for monitoring vital signs during anesthesia, sedatives before anesthesia, IV fluids, warming devices, antibiotics, the surgical procedure, orthopedic implants (if needed), overnight care after surgery, and medications to take home after the surgery. These are just a handful of the services included.
5. Dedicated ICU Team
Your pet will be hospitalized pre and post operatively in the intensive care unit, where a team of technicians will be available 24/7 to provide care and ensure comfort.
6. Team of ER Veterinarians
Our emergency room veterinarians are scheduled 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take care of any urgent needs your pet may have during their stay.
7. Pain Management
Your pet will receive pain management both during and after the surgery, including an epidural to numb the pain during surgery and a 3-day local block to help with pain after dismissal. Their stay overnight ensures that if rescue medication is needed, it is readily available to give. Additional oral pain medications will be given for continued home care.
Conclusion
With thorough preoperative care, meticulous surgical technique, and comprehensive postoperative support, the TPLO procedure aims to restore your pet’s mobility and improve their quality of life. Not included in the TPLO procedure, is follow-up care including examinations, sedation, and diagnostic imaging fees for rechecks and complications that may arise along the way. Every pets journey is unique and planning that post operative path is no different.
In conclusion, understanding the comprehensive care included in a TPLO procedure can help alleviate concerns about your pet’s surgery. Being aware of what is encompassed in the TPLO procedure empowers pet owners to make well-informed decisions about their beloved companion’s healthcare journey.
