What to expect when you weren’t expecting a TPLO

Canine cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries are a commonly occurring condition among dogs, which can cause them to experience discomfort, reduced mobility, and lameness. Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery is a highly effective surgical treatment available for this condition. TPLO surgery aims to stabilise the knee joint and restore function, enabling your doggo friend to return to an active, pain-free lifestyle. However, the success of TPLO surgery greatly depends on the efforts of prehabilitation (prehab) and rehabilitation (rehab). In this blog, we will delve into what TPLO surgery entails and explore the prehab and rehab options to ensure a smooth and successful recovery journey for your beloved doggo companion.

TPLO surgery is a surgical procedure that aims to restore stability and function to the knee joint of dogs with CCL injuries. The surgery involves reshaping the tibial plateau, which helps the joint regain balance and stability. This surgery provides a new hope for dogs struggling with pain, discomfort, and mobility issues.

Before the surgery, the dog undergoes a careful assessment to determine the best surgical approach. The surgery is performed under anaesthesia, and the surgeon makes an incision to reach the knee joint. The surgeon then carefully reshapes the tibial plateau, using specialised implants to ensure stability and protect the joint.

After the surgery, the dog requires rehabilitation to regain mobility and strength. The veterinary team will design a rehabilitation program tailored to the dog's unique needs, which may include exercises, manual therapy, and other modalities. Postoperative challenges such as infection, implant failure, and delayed healing may occur, but the veterinary team is always ready to address these challenges and guide the dog towards recovery.

Prehabilitation

Prehabilitation, also known as prehab, plays a crucial role in optimising your dog's physical condition and mental readiness before undergoing Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery. By implementing a comprehensive prehabilitation program, you can enhance your dog's overall well-being, improve surgical outcomes, and facilitate a smoother recovery process. 

Consultation with a Veterinary Professional
   - Schedule a consultation with your veterinarian or a certified veterinary surgeon to discuss your dog's condition, treatment options, and prehabilitation plan.
​ - Seek guidance on preoperative requirements, including diagnostic tests, blood work, and any necessary medications or supplements.

Weight Management
- Evaluate your dog's body condition score and work with your veterinarian to establish a target weight range.
- Implement a tailored diet plan to achieve gradual weight loss if necessary, focusing on portion control, high-quality nutrition, and regular exercise.
- Monitor your dog's weight regularly and adjust the diet plan as needed to maintain progress towards the target weight.

Muscle Strengthening
- Incorporate targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected knee joint, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip abductors.
- Engage in low-impact activities such as leash walks, controlled stair climbing, and swimming to promote muscle development and joint stability.
- Consult with a certified canine rehabilitation therapist for personalized exercise recommendations and guidance on proper technique.

Joint Supplements
- Discuss the use of joint supplements with your veterinarian to support your dog's joint health and mobility.
- Consider incorporating supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants into your dog's daily regimen.
- Choose high-quality supplements specifically formulated for canine use and follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Mental Preparation
- Introduce your dog to handling procedures, such as gentle manipulation of the affected leg, to familiarise them with prehabilitation exercises and minimise stress on the day of surgery.
- Utilise positive reinforcement training techniques to create a positive association with prehabilitation activities and promote cooperation and relaxation.
- Provide environmental enrichment, interactive toys, and mental stimulation to engage your dog and reduce anxiety during prehabilitation.

Environmental Modification
- Create a safe and comfortable environment for your dog to rest and recuperate before surgery.
- Minimise environmental stressors, such as loud noises or unfamiliar visitors, to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
- Ensure easy access to food, water, and a comfortable resting area to support your dog's physical and emotional well-being.

Veterinary Follow-Up
- Schedule regular follow-up appointments with your veterinarian to monitor your dog's progress and adjust the prehabilitation plan as needed.
- Immediately communicate any changes in your dog's condition, behaviour, or response to prehabilitation activities to your veterinary team.
- Collaborate closely with your veterinarian and veterinary surgeon to ensure your dog receives comprehensive care and support throughout the prehabilitation process.

By following this prehabilitation guide and working closely with your veterinary team, you can empower your canine companion to face TPLO surgery with confidence and resilience. By optimising your dog's physical condition, mental well-being, and overall readiness for surgery, you can enhance the likelihood of a successful outcome and promote a smoother recovery journey.

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation following Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery is essential for promoting healing, restoring mobility, and ensuring the long-term success of the procedure. By implementing a structured rehabilitation program, you can support your dog's recovery journey, minimise complications, and optimise their return to an active, pain-free lifestyle.

Consultation with a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist
- Schedule a consultation with a certified canine rehabilitation therapist (CCRT) or a veterinary professional experienced in postoperative care.
- Discuss your dog's surgical procedure, postoperative restrictions, and rehabilitation goals to develop a tailored rehabilitation plan.

Pain Management
- Administer prescribed pain medications as directed by your veterinarian to manage postoperative discomfort and inflammation.
- Monitor your dog's pain levels closely and communicate any changes or concerns to your veterinary team promptly.
- Explore additional pain management modalities, such as cold therapy, laser therapy, or acupuncture, under the guidance of a qualified professional.

Controlled Exercise
- Begin a structured exercise program focusing on controlled movement, muscle strengthening, and joint flexibility.
- Gradually increase the duration and intensity of exercise sessions while monitoring your dog's response and adjusting the program as needed.
- Incorporate low-impact activities such as leash walking, hydrotherapy, and therapeutic exercises to promote joint mobility and muscle recovery.

Rehabilitation Exercises
- Engage in targeted rehabilitation exercises designed to improve proprioception, balance, and joint stability.
- Include exercises such as sit-to-stand transitions, weight shifting, balance exercises on unstable surfaces, and gentle range of motion exercises.
- Work closely with your rehabilitation therapist to ensure proper technique and progression of exercises based on your dog's individual needs and capabilities.

Joint Protection
- Implement strategies to protect the surgical site and minimize stress on the affected limb during the rehabilitation process.
- Use supportive devices such as orthopaedic braces, bandages, or protective boots as recommended by your veterinary team.
- Avoid activities that place excessive strain on the surgical site, such as running, jumping, or rough play, until cleared by your veterinarian.

Nutritional Support
- Provide a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog's recovery and tissue healing.
- Consider incorporating joint supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants to promote joint health and reduce inflammation.
- Consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your dog's nutritional needs are met during the rehabilitation period.

Monitoring and Progress Evaluation
- Monitor your dog's progress closely, noting improvements in mobility, muscle strength, and comfort levels.
- Attend follow-up appointments with your veterinary team to assess your dog's healing progress, address any concerns, and adjust the rehabilitation plan as needed.
- Keep a journal or log of your dog's rehabilitation activities, pain levels, and milestones achieved to track progress and inform future decisions.

Patience and Support
- Be patient and supportive as your dog navigates the challenges of rehabilitation and recovery.
- Offer encouragement, praise, and rewards for participating in rehabilitation exercises and maintaining a positive attitude.
- Provide a calm and nurturing environment free from stressors to promote relaxation and well-being during the recovery process.

By following this rehabilitation guide and working closely with your veterinary and rehabilitation team, you can facilitate a successful recovery for your doggo companion following TPLO surgery. With dedication, patience, and proper support, you can help your dog regain mobility, strength, and vitality, paving the way for a happy and active life post-surgery.

TPLO surgery offers a promising solution for canine CCL injuries, but successful outcomes depend on diligent prehabilitation and rehabilitation efforts. You can optimise their recovery and enhance their quality of life by implementing appropriate prehab strategies to prepare your dog for surgery and following a structured rehab program postoperatively. Consult with your veterinarian or a certified canine rehabilitation therapist to develop a customised prehab and rehab plan tailored to your dog's individual needs. With proper care and support, your doggo friend can return from TPLO surgery and enjoy an active, pain-free lifestyle again.

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