TPLO Surgery in Madrid, Spain
Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy (TPLO) for dogs with cranial cruciate ligament disease, performed in a dedicated orthopaedic operating room with monitored anaesthesia and 24-hour hospitalisation.
Cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs
The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL, the canine equivalent of the human ACL) stabilises the stifle. In dogs it usually degenerates progressively rather than tearing in a single traumatic event, which is why many patients show intermittent hindlimb lameness for weeks or months before a complete rupture occurs.
Once the ligament fails, the tibia slides forward every time the dog bears weight. This instability causes pain, meniscal injury and, if left untreated, osteoarthritis.
- Sudden hindlimb lameness after running, jumping or slipping
- Toe-touching stance or reluctance to bear weight
- Lameness that improves with rest and returns with exercise
- A previous diagnosis of partial cruciate ligament tear
What is TPLO and when do we recommend it
TPLO changes the biomechanics of the stifle instead of replacing the ligament. The tibial plateau is cut, rotated to a neutral angle and stabilised with a locking bone plate, so the joint becomes stable during weight bearing.
It is our preferred technique for medium and large-breed dogs, for young and athletic dogs, and for patients with a steep tibial plateau angle. For small dogs, or when there are concurrent orthopaedic problems, our surgical team will discuss whether another technique is more appropriate. The indication is always based on the orthopaedic examination and imaging, never on the breed alone.
Diagnosis and surgical planning
- Orthopaedic examination under sedation when required (cranial drawer and tibial compression tests)
- Digital radiographs of the stifle in standard positioning for plateau angle measurement
- Pre-anaesthetic bloodwork and, in older patients, thoracic imaging
- Digital planning of the osteotomy and implant size before the day of surgery
Surgery, implants and anaesthesia
Surgery is performed by our orthopaedic surgical team using locking TPLO plates and screws from established international implant manufacturers. The meniscus is inspected in every case and treated if damaged.
Anaesthesia is individualised for each patient, with continuous monitoring of ECG, blood pressure, capnography, oxygen saturation and temperature, plus locoregional analgesia and multimodal pain control before, during and after the procedure.
Hospitalisation and recovery
Patients stay in our hospitalisation unit with veterinary staff present 24 hours a day. Most dogs go home the day after surgery with a written pain-management plan.
Controlled activity is required for approximately eight weeks: short lead walks, no jumping or stairs, and a progressive return to exercise. A control radiograph is taken to confirm bone healing.
Travelling to Madrid for TPLO surgery
Have you been quoted $10,000 or more for your dog's TPLO surgery?
Send us your pet's medical records and diagnostic imaging. Our surgical team will review the case and, whenever possible, provide a clear, fixed treatment quote before you travel.
For many international patients, the total cost of treatment in Madrid — even after accounting for flights and accommodation — can remain significantly below treatment costs in the United States or other high-cost markets. The saving depends on your case and is confirmed only in the written quote.
Your pet receives advanced surgical care, high-quality implants, 24-hour hospital support and treatment by an experienced veterinary surgical team.
- Step 1: send X-rays, reports and bloodwork for a remote case review
- Step 2: we confirm whether TPLO is indicated and issue a written quote when clinically possible
- Step 3: we agree surgery dates and help you plan the stay
- Step 4: examination and pre-operative tests on arrival, surgery within 24–48 hours
- Step 5: rechecks during your stay and a discharge report in English for your own veterinarian
How long should we stay in Madrid?
For most TPLO patients we recommend planning a stay of around one week, so that surgery, the immediate post-operative period and at least one recheck happen before you fly home. The final recommendation, including fitness to fly, is made by the attending surgeon for each individual patient.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to travel before knowing whether surgery is possible?
No. We review your pet's imaging, bloodwork and clinical history remotely. We tell you whether TPLO appears to be indicated and, whenever clinically possible, give you a written quote before you book anything. The final surgical decision is always confirmed after the in-person examination.
Which implants do you use?
Locking TPLO plates and screws from established international implant manufacturers, selected according to your dog's size and bone quality.
Can my dog fly home after TPLO surgery?
In most cases yes, once the incision has been checked and the surgeon considers the patient fit to travel. We issue the health documentation required for the journey, including export certificates when needed.
Does someone speak English?
Yes. Your case coordinator, the surgical team and all discharge reports are available in English.
What does the quote include?
Quotes are issued per case and set out exactly what is covered: pre-operative tests, anaesthesia, the procedure, implants, hospitalisation, pain control, medication to go home and rechecks during your stay.
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Talk to Our Team
Send your pet's medical records and diagnostic imaging for a case review, or contact our hospital in Madrid directly.