TPLO surgery

TPLO surgery was successfully performed at Veterinarium on Mura, a mixed-breed dog, and his rehabilitation has progressed successfully. 

Mura was diagnosed with a partial rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), which resulted in grade III 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 and is associated with a high success rate (90–95%). It restores normal limb function and significantly improves the patient’s quality of life.

At Veterinarium, surgical planning is led by the Head Veterinarian and Head of the Surgical Department, Dr. Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, who utilizes vPOP PRO (Veterinary Preoperative Orthopaedic Planning), a licensed software platform used for veterinary orthopedic surgical planning. The software enables precise bone measurements, optimal implant selection, and preoperative assessment of expected surgical outcomes.

Prior to surgery, Mura underwent the following diagnostic examinations:

• Radiographic imaging (X-rays) 
• Laboratory testing (complete blood count, biochemistry profile, and electrolyte analysis) 
• Cardiac ultrasonography

Laboratory and radiological diagnostics are critically important both for surgical planning and for the safe management of anesthesia.

In June, the TPLO procedure was performed by Dr. Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, who completed specialized training in this field (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 lectures in veterinary surgical disciplines. 

The surgeon was assisted by Barbare Kurtsikidze, who successfully completed the ESAVS surgery program in Romania.

Anesthesia was managed by Natia Robakidze, who has completed specialized training in veterinary anesthesia in Poland, Estonia, and Italy.