TPLO surgery is a commonly performed orthopaedic procedure used to stabilise the stifle joint following cranial cruciate ligament rupture. While every precaution is taken to minimise risk, all surgery and general anaesthesia carry inherent risks, and complications may occur despite appropriate care and monitoring.

• Bruising, swelling, or discomfort around the surgical site. 
• Temporary reduced appetite, lethargy, or nausea following anaesthesia. 
• Mild inflammation or bruising around the incision. 
• Temporary limping or altered gait during the recovery period. 
• Minor bleeding or bruising. 

• Wound infection. 
• Opening of the surgical wound (dehiscence). 
• Seroma (fluid accumulation beneath the skin). 
• Delayed bone healing or delayed wound healing. 
• Adverse reactions to anaesthetic drugs, pain relief, antibiotics, or other medications. 
• Implant irritation or discomfort. 
• Persistent lameness despite surgery. 

• Significant haemorrhage requiring further treatment. 
• Deep infection involving the bone or implants, potentially requiring implant removal or revision surgery. 
• Implant failure, screw loosening, or plate breakage. 
• Delayed union or non-union of the osteotomy site. 
• Fracture of the tibia or tibial tuberosity. 
• Meniscal injury requiring additional surgery. 
• Damage to surrounding nerves, blood vessels, or soft tissues. 
• Severe reactions to medications or anaesthetic agents. 
• Cardiac or respiratory complications, including arrest. 
• Blood clot formation or thromboembolic events. 
• Death despite appropriate care and monitoring. 

• Development or progression of osteoarthritis within the affected joint despite successful stabilisation. 
• Persistent or intermittent lameness, stiffness, or reduced athletic performance. 
• Implant-associated problems that may require removal or revision surgery. 
• Rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament in the opposite limb, which is reported in a significant proportion of patients over time. 
• Weight management and rehabilitation are important factors in achieving the best long-term outcome. 

Successful recovery following TPLO surgery depends heavily on strict postoperative management, including restricted exercise, adherence to medication instructions, and, where appropriate, physiotherapy or rehabilitation. Although TPLO surgery has a high success rate and most patients regain good limb function, no surgical or anaesthetic procedure is entirely without risk, and normal limb function cannot be guaranteed.

Every effort is made by the veterinary team to provide safe anaesthesia, effective pain relief, and the highest standard of orthopaedic care.