The story of Izzy

TPLO surgery was successfully performed at Veterinarium on patient Izzy, and her postoperative recovery has progressed well.
Izzy was diagnosed with a complete rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), which resulted in grade V lameness.

Surgical treatment via Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) is considered one of the most advanced and effective methods for managing cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs. This technique is widely regarded as the international gold standard, with reported success rates of 90-95%. It restores joint function, reduces pain, and significantly improves quality of life in canine patients.

At Veterinarium, surgical planning is led by the Chief Veterinarian and Head of the Surgical Department, Dr. Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, who utilizes vPOP PRO (Veterinary Preoperative Orthopaedic Planning) - a licensed, globally recognized platform for orthopedic surgical planning in veterinary medicine. vPOP PRO enables detailed fracture assessment, precise bone measurements, optimal implant selection, and preoperative simulation of surgical outcomes.

Prior to surgery, the patient underwent comprehensive diagnostics, including:

• Radiographic imaging (X-rays)
• Preoperative laboratory testing (complete blood count, biochemistry profile, electrolyte panel)
• Echocardiography

These laboratory and radiologic diagnostic assessments play a critical role not only in surgical planning but also in ensuring the safe and effective administration of anesthesia.

The TPLO procedure was performed by Dr. Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, who completed advanced training in Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (Advanced TPLO - The Next Level) in Bulgaria with the support of the Agricultural University of Georgia. Dr. Japaridze holds a Master’s degree in Veterinary Medicine, is a PhD candidate at the Agricultural University of Georgia, and also lectures in veterinary surgery. The surgeon was assisted by Luka Ghlonti, a Master’s student at the School of Veterinary Medicine of the Agricultural University of Georgia.
Anesthesia was expertly managed by Natia Robakidze, who has completed specialized training in veterinary anesthesia in Poland, Estonia, and Italy.