TPLO vs. TTA: What's the Difference?
One of the most common orthopedic injuries that occur in dogs is a torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) – a ligament found in the knee similar to an ACL in humans. If your dog has been diagnosed with a torn CCL, two common surgeries can help solve your fur baby's knee problems: Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) and Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA). You may be wondering what the difference is between TPLO vs. TTA. In this article, we will go over the pros and cons of TTA surgery and how it compares to the TPLO procedure so you can decide what's best for your four-legged best friend.
Ready to book TTA or TPLO surgery for your dog? MexiVet Express can help save you money on the bill by giving your fur baby a ride to Baja Mexico for affordable vet care. Request a quote today and book an appointment.
TPLO vs TTA Surgical Procedure
When it comes to TTA vs. a traditional ACL surgery like TPLO, the main difference is how the procedure is performed. Here's what happens during each surgical procedure:
TPLO: A TPLO surgery involves cutting the top of the tibia (bone below the knee), rotating it, stabilizing it and repositioning it with a bone plate and screws to help alleviate any strain caused by the torn CCL during movement.
TTA: In a TTA procedure, the tibial tuberosity - a bone located on the top of the shin bone - is cut and repositioned to change the positioning of the knee joint. This helps shift much of the weight away from the torn CCL and onto other ligaments that can provide your dog stability when they walk, run and play.
Recovery Time
Both the TPLO and TTA recovery processes require exercise restrictions to allow the bone to heal. That means ensuring your fur baby isn't running around or jumping off furniture for at least 8 weeks. We know - it’s hard being a strict paw-rent but by following the proper care instructions given by your vet your fur baby will be back to having fun in no time.
Overall, the TTA success rate is high, with 90% of cases making a full recovery. Recovery after TTA surgery also tends to be faster than TPLO with less pain during the healing process. Plus, there is a lower risk of TTA complications, such as infection or implant failure.
TPLO also has a high success rate with 90-95% of cases making a full recovery. It's also the most researched surgical procedure in dogs and the traditional method for fixing a torn CCL in dogs. Plus, it is effective in stabilizing the joint long-term and preventing future arthritis.
The Pros and Cons of TTA and TPLO
Figuring out which procedure is best for your dog will depend on the individual case. Ultimately, it will be up to your vet to decide which procedure will be the most appropriate option for your dog. However, it’s always great to be informed about your options and know the pros and cons of TTA surgery and TPLO. In general, this is how the two surgical procedure compare:
TTA Procedure Pros
Less downtime and a quicker recovery process.
Less pain during healing.
Low risk of infection and implant failure.
Proven to be effective for long-term stability.
90% high success rate.
TTA Procedure Cons
A more complex surgery that requires an experienced veterinarian
Cost can vary and be expensive, depending on the vet
TPLO Surgery Pros
The most common and researched surgery in dogs.
90-95% high success rate.
Proven long-term stability of the knee that helps prevent future arthritis.
Typically, further surgeries on the knee are not required after TPLO surgery.
TPLO Surgery Cons
Recovery time can be lengthy and requires that you follow aftercare instructions carefully.
Tends to be more expensive than the TTA procedure.
Not all dogs will be suitable candidates for TPLO surgery.
TPLO vs. TTA Cost
In the United States, getting your dog the care they need can be costly. When it comes to TPLO vs. TTA, prices can vary. The cost of either surgery will differ, depending on where you live, the size of your dog and the severity of the CCL injury. If you've received a quote from your U.S. vet that you simply can't afford, contact MexiVet Express to receive a quote for the TPLO and TTA procedures.
TTA Cost
In general, the approximate cost for the TTA procedure in Tijuana is between $1800-2400, including a roundtrip ride from San Diego for your bestie. The price will also include:
An orthopedic consultation
Full IDEXX blood work
IDEXX urinalysis
x-rays (including 30-day follow-up x-ray)
1-night hospitalization
Round trip transportation
TPLO Cost
In general, the approximate cost for the TPLO procedure in Tijuana can be between $1580-1900. The TPLO process involves two appointments which include:
Appointment 1:
An orthopedic consultation
x-rays: +$50
blood work: +$60
Roundtrip transportation (1/2 day appointment)
Appointment 2:
TPLO Surgery
Roundtrip transportation
Keep in mind that there will be an additional cost for after-care medications. Aftercare medications will vary in price depending on your pet's weight. Generally speaking, for smaller dogs the meds are around $70 and for larger dogs they can be up to $200.
Booking a TTA or TPLO Surgery Appointment
At MexiVet, our goal is to help connect you to quality and affordable vet care that gets your fur baby back on all fours and running as wild as they were before their injury. If you're looking for an affordable option, contact MexiVet Express today for a quote. We'll help you get started with an appointment with one of our trusty and experienced vets for a TPLO or TTA surgery.
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