10-millimeter radial tibial plateau-leveling osteotomy can achieve favorable outcomes with low complication rates in small-breed dogs

Abstract

Objective To evaluate clinical outcomes and complications of 10-mm radial tibial plateau-leveling osteotomy (TPLO) using a 10-mm radial blade in small dogs with cranial cruciate ligament disease. Methods This retrospective, observational study reviewed medical records of small-breed dogs with cranial cruciate ligament disease that underwent unilateral or bilateral 10-mm radial TPLO at 2 veterinary referral hospitals from August 2022 through May 2025. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were assessed at 8 to 14 weeks and ≥ 6 months postoperatively. Kinetic gait analysis was performed preoperatively and at 2 to 24 weeks postoperatively in a subset. Longterm outcomes were supplemented by owner interviews ≥ 6 months postoperatively. Results Lameness scores improved from 3.2 ± 1.5 preoperatively to 0.9 ± 1.0 (short-term) and 0.1 ± 0.3 at long-term followup. Bone healing scores improved from 1.5 ± 0.6 at short-term to 1.0 ± 0.0 at long-term evaluation, indicating complete union in all cases. Peak vertical force, vertical impulse, and symmetry indices improved over time. Owner-assessed outcomes (n = 40) were excellent in 36 stifles (90%) and good in 4 (10%). Complications occurred in 3 stifles (6.0%), 2 major and 1 minor; all resolved without long-term morbidity. Conclusions TPLO performed with a 10-mm radial blade was associated with significant improvements in clinical, kinetic, and radiographic outcomes with a low overall complication rate in small-breed dogs, although kinetic data were available only for a subset of cases. Clinical Relevance The 10-mm radial TPLO achieved excellent clinical, kinetic, and radiographic outcomes with a low complication rate in small-breed dogs.