Arthroscopy / Left Locking Plate Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy

Course overview

A surgical procedure for a canine stifle (knee) joint, specifically involving arthroscopic evaluation followed by a Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) procedure. The surgery was performed to address a partial tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The surgeon began with arthroscopic evaluation of the stifle joint, following a systematic approach to examine different compartments of the joint. The surgeon described the evaluation process, starting with the medial compartment, then examining the patella and trochlear groove, the dorsal pouch, lateral trochlear ridge, lateral compartment, and finally the origin of the long digital extensor. Throughout this process, pictures were taken of various anatomical structures including the torn ACL. During the arthroscopic portion, the surgeon discussed the considerations for debridement of the ACL. They outlined arguments both for complete removal (eliminating sources of inflammation and pain, improving joint examination) and for leaving ligament tissue in place (preserving mechanoreceptors, potentially providing residual stability). The surgeon noted mild osteoarthritis and synovitis in the joint, confirmed a partial tear of the ACL which was debrided, and verified that both menisci and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) were normal. Following the arthroscopic evaluation, the team transitioned to the TPLO procedure. The surgeon made a cranial medial approach to the proximal tibia, identified key anatomical landmarks, and used a needle to guide placement of a 3.5 standard plate. The osteotomy was measured at 11.7 mm, marked, and executed. The surgeon then secured the plate with a combination of locking and cortical screws, checking alignment and eliminating thrust. Throughout the procedure, the surgeon provided detailed instructions to the surgical team, requested specific instruments, and performed technical maneuvers while explaining the rationale behind each step. The procedure concluded with closure of the surgical site and a brief summary of findings: mild osteoarthritis, mild synovitis, partial tear of the ACL (which was debrided), and normal menisci and PCL. Course includes Surgery Report, Pre-Operative Radiographs, Pre Operative Planning, Arthroscopic Snapshots, Post Operative Radiographs