TPLO Surgery in Fort Myers, FL
Welcome to Tails-A-Waggin Animal Hospital & Pet Resort, your trusted source for TPLO surgery in Fort Myers. Our board-certified surgical team delivers advanced orthopedic care to help dogs with cruciate ligament injuries get back on their feet.
Understanding TPLO Surgery
TPLO stands for tibial plateau leveling osteotomy. It is one of the most effective surgical treatments for a torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), the ligament often referred to as the ACL in pets. When this ligament tears, the top of the shinbone slides forward with every step, causing pain, limping, and progressive arthritis.
Rather than replacing the torn ligament, TPLO changes the mechanics of the knee. During surgery, a precise cut is made in the tibia and the weight-bearing surface, known as the tibial plateau, is rotated to a more level angle. The bone is then secured with a specialized plate and screws. This eliminates the forward sliding motion so the knee stays stable without relying on the damaged ligament.
At Tails-A-Waggin Animal Hospital & Pet Resort, TPLO is performed by board-certified surgeon Dr. Báez. It is often recommended for medium to large breed dogs, active and athletic dogs, and pets with a steep tibial plateau angle. TPLO is one of several techniques we offer for ACL repair, and our team will help you decide which approach is right for your pet.
What to Expect During TPLO Surgery
Our TPLO process is designed for precision, comfort, and a strong recovery. Here’s what you can expect when your pet undergoes TPLO surgery in Fort Myers:
Orthopedic Exam and Surgical Planning
Our veterinary team begins with a thorough orthopedic exam to confirm a cruciate ligament injury. Digital radiographs are used to measure your pet’s tibial plateau angle, which allows Dr. Báez to plan the exact bone cut and rotation needed for your pet’s knee. We’ll review the findings with you and answer every question before surgery.
Safe Anesthesia and Continuous Monitoring
On the day of surgery, your pet receives pre-anesthetic bloodwork, carefully tailored anesthesia, and continuous monitoring of heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and temperature. Multi-modal pain management begins before the first incision to keep your pet comfortable throughout the procedure.
Precise Bone Leveling and Stabilization
Dr. Báez performs the osteotomy, rotates the tibial plateau to a stable angle, and secures it with a surgical plate and screws designed for TPLO. The inside of the joint is also evaluated, and an injured meniscus is treated at the same time when needed. Post-operative radiographs confirm proper alignment before your pet wakes up.
Guided Recovery and Rehabilitation
Your pet recovers in our low-stress recovery suites before going home with pain medication and detailed care instructions. Most dogs need about 8 to 12 weeks of restricted activity while the bone heals. We schedule recheck exams and follow-up radiographs to confirm healing and provide a personalized rehabilitation plan to rebuild strength safely.
Why TPLO Surgery is Important for Your Pet
A torn cruciate ligament will not heal on its own, and the knee instability it causes leads to ongoing pain and joint damage. Timely TPLO surgery in Fort Myers restores a stable, functional knee and gives your dog the best chance at a full, active life.
Long-Term Knee Stability
By changing the angle of the tibial plateau, TPLO neutralizes the forces that cause the knee to slide. This creates a stable joint that does not depend on the torn ligament, making it an excellent option for larger and highly active dogs.
Faster Return to Activity
Many dogs begin touching their leg down within days of TPLO surgery. With a structured recovery plan, most pets return to walks, play, and normal activity once the bone has fully healed.
Slows the Progression of Arthritis
An unstable knee wears down cartilage quickly. Stabilizing the joint with TPLO helps slow arthritis and protects the meniscus from further damage, supporting your pet’s comfort for years to come.
Signs Your Pet May Need TPLO Surgery
Cruciate ligament injuries can happen suddenly or develop gradually. Contact our veterinary professionals for an evaluation if you notice any of the following:
- Sudden limping or holding up a hind leg
- Difficulty rising, jumping into the car, or climbing stairs
- Sitting with one hind leg kicked out to the side
- Swelling or thickening on the inside of the knee
- Clicking sounds when walking or reduced muscle in the thigh
If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, schedule an exam right away. Early diagnosis helps protect the meniscus and improves surgical outcomes. Reach our team at (239) 482-6897.
Practice Highlights
What sets Tails-A-Waggin Animal Hospital & Pet Resort apart for TPLO surgery in Fort Myers?
- Board-Certified Surgical Expertise: On-site ACVS Diplomate (Dr. Báez) performs every TPLO procedure
- University-Caliber Medical Protocols: Care guided by Dr. Mercado’s instructor-level experience
- Precise Pre-Surgical Planning: Digital radiographs used to measure and plan each correction
- Low-Stress Recovery Suites: Quiet, darkened spaces ease the healing process
- Personalized Rehabilitation Plans: Step-by-step aftercare for a safe return to activity
- Serving Fort Myers and Surrounding Communities: Conveniently located and trusted by local families
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TPLO surgery and how is it different from other ACL repairs?
TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy) treats a torn cranial cruciate ligament by changing the angle of the shinbone so the knee stays stable without the ligament. Other techniques, like lateral suture stabilization, replace the ligament’s function with a strong suture. TPLO is often preferred for larger and more active dogs. Our team will recommend the best option for your pet. Call (239) 482-6897 to learn more.
How much does TPLO surgery cost and how long does it take?
The cost of TPLO surgery in Fort Myers depends on your dog’s size, pre-surgical imaging, and aftercare needs. The procedure itself typically takes a few hours, and most pets go home the same or next day. We’ll provide a detailed estimate during your consultation. Contact our team at (239) 482-6897 for more information.
What is recovery like after TPLO surgery?
Most dogs need about 8 to 12 weeks of restricted activity, including leash-only walks and no running or jumping, while the bone heals. We’ll schedule rechecks and follow-up radiographs to confirm healing and guide a gradual return to exercise. For personalized recovery instructions, call (239) 482-6897.
What conditions are treated or prevented with TPLO surgery?
TPLO treats partial and complete cranial cruciate ligament tears, which cause knee pain, lameness, and instability. Stabilizing the knee also helps slow arthritis and protects the meniscus from further injury. Our Fort Myers veterinary team provides comprehensive orthopedic care for the best possible outcome.
How do I schedule a TPLO consultation and what are your hours?
To schedule a TPLO surgery consultation, call Tails-A-Waggin Animal Hospital & Pet Resort at (239) 482-6897. We’re located at 11960 Kelly Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908. Our hours are Monday through Friday, 8am to 6pm. Same-day emergency appointments are available when possible.
Schedule Your Pet's TPLO Surgery Consultation Today
Don’t let a cruciate ligament injury keep your dog on the sidelines. Contact Tails-A-Waggin Animal Hospital & Pet Resort to schedule a TPLO surgery consultation. Our convenient Fort Myers location at 11960 Kelly Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 is easily accessible for Lee and Collier County pet owners. Call us at (239) 482-6897, we’re open Monday through Friday, 8am to 6pm. Our veterinary team is dedicated to restoring your pet’s mobility and quality of life with advanced, compassionate care.
