This hands-on laboratory course is designed to provide veterinarians with a strong foundation in Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) planning and execution using a traditional jig-based surgical approach.

Through a combination of lectures, computer-based planning exercises, dry-lab training, instructor demonstrations, and canine specimen practice, participants will develop a systematic approach to TPLO decision making, surgical technique, and complication avoidance.

Each participant will complete TPLO planning and operative training on a plastic bone model and on both the right and left stifles of canine specimens, providing extensive supervised hands-on experience.

The course is intended to serve as a launching point for continued skill development through additional specimen practice, mentorship, and peer collaboration. Participants should not expect to independently begin performing TPLO procedures clinically immediately following the course. Rather, they will leave with the knowledge, framework, and resources needed to continue progressing safely and effectively toward clinical implementation under appropriate guidance and mentorship.

Participant Prerequisites

Participants should possess a basic understanding of fracture fixation and bone plating principles prior to attending this course. The program is designed to teach TPLO planning and execution using a traditional jig-based approach and assumes familiarity with fundamental orthopedic instrumentation, implant concepts, and plate-and-screw application techniques. The course will not provide comprehensive instruction on basic plating principles.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Explain the indications, biomechanical principles, and expected outcomes of TPLO surgery.
• Perform preoperative radiographic assessment and TPLO planning using established techniques and digital planning tools.
• Identify relevant stifle anatomy and apply appropriate approaches to joint exploration and meniscal assessment.
• Discuss indications for meniscal treatment and incorporate findings into surgical decision making.
• Describe and perform the major steps of a jig-based TPLO procedure in a cadaver laboratory setting.
• Execute TPLO procedure techniques on a dry-lab bone model.
• Perform stifle arthrotomy, meniscal assessment, and TPLO procedures on both right and left canine stifles.
• Interpret postoperative radiographs and evaluate osteotomy position, implant placement, and overall construct quality.
• Recognize common complications associated with TPLO surgery and discuss strategies for prevention and management.
• Develop an individualized plan for continued surgical skill development through additional specimen practice, mentorship, and peer support.