Dr. Timothy Jordan is a skilled & respected veterinary orthopedic surgeon, providing a wide variety of advanced procedures for patients at Plaza Animal Hospital as well as those referred from other veterinary facilities. He has performed over 3000 orthopedic surgeries in his career, and we are proud to now be a resource for these services in the community.
Those procedures include the various options for repair of the cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL.
To treat conditions such as ruptured CCLs, we recommend a procedure called a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy or TPLO for dogs weighing more than twenty pounds. For smaller dogs and cats, we repair the torn CCL using a technique called extracapsular repair or lateral suture.
Dr. Jordan has extensive experience in both procedures and will consult with you about the preferred method for your pet. The best surgical option for your dog will generally depend on the size and age of your dog.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO)
A torn CCL results in painful instability of the knee joint. The Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) method of treating a torn CCL alters the geometry of the knee joint to make the joint stable. It involves making a cut in the tibia or shin bone and plating the bone in place. Once the bone is healed, the repair is permanent. Most dogs return to weight-bearing on the affected leg soon after surgery, but their activity needs to be partially restricted for six to eight weeks while the bone heals in place. It is a highly effective procedure and is the preferred procedure for most dogs weighing over twenty pounds.
Extracapsular (Lateral Suture) Repair
Extracapsular, or lateral suture, refers to a repair that is performed alongside the knee joint. After the knee joint has been inspected and damaged tissue cleaned up, a strong suture is placed on the outside of the joint that runs in the same direction as the original CCL. This suture provides stability in a very similar way to the CCL before it was torn. Although this method of repair can be performed on any dog, it tends to be best for dogs under 20 pounds. A period of restricted activity is required after this surgery.
Dr. Jordan also has experience with many other orthopedic procedures including:
- Medial Patellar Luxation (MPL)
- Fracture repair
- Meniscal (cartilage) repair
- FHO/TPO/DPO procedures for hip joints
Click here for more information on Dr. Jordan and the orthopedic options available.
To schedule a surgical consultation or referral for a pet, call us at 704-662-8586. Or click below to learn more about our surgery standards of care.
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What is Veterinary Orthopedic Surgery?
Veterinary orthopedic surgery centers on the treatment of injuries and disorders related to an animal’s musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Our team of skilled vets performs a wide range of surgical procedures, from fracture repairs to joint replacements. These surgeries help restore mobility and improve the quality of life for our furry friends who might be suffering from various conditions like bone injuries or degenerative diseases.
We understand that each pet is unique, so we tailor-make every surgical plan according to their specific needs. Pre-surgical evaluations are part of our routine to ensure your pet is in the best condition for operation.
Post-operative care holds equal significance, as it plays a vital role in a speedy recovery after any vet orthopedic surgery. We support this with pain management strategies customized for each patient’s comfort during the healing process.
Our Veterinary Orthopedic Surgery Services
We offer a wide range of veterinary orthopedic surgery services to ensure the best care for your furry friends. This includes surgical consultations and evaluations, fracture repairs, ligament repairs, joint replacements, pre-surgical evaluations and diagnostics, post-surgical care and rehabilitation, pain management, as well as follow-up examinations and regular check-ups.
Surgical consultations and evaluations
At our animal healthcare center, we view your pet’s well-being as our top priority. This is why we wholeheartedly believe in the importance of surgical consultations and evaluations.
These sessions allow us to grasp each unique situation before embarking on any surgical journey.
During these consultations, our seasoned professionals carry out comprehensive assessments with cutting-edge tools. We carefully examine bone damages and assess the need for joint replacements or other interventions requiring veterinary orthopedic surgery.
This methodology guarantees that every potential treatment plan is explored for the betterment of your pet’s health. Our goal remains to deliver unparalleled animal care whilst reducing discomfort or risk during all surgical procedures.
Orthopedic surgeries (fracture repairs, ligament repairs, joint replacements)
Our orthopedic surgery services for pets span a wide range, including fracture repairs, ligament repairs, and joint replacements. At our clinic in North Carolina, we have a team of skilled veterinary surgeons dedicated to treating each animal with the utmost care and accuracy.
Fracture repair procedures are performed on pets that have suffered bone injuries or fractures due to accidents or falls. We stabilize these broken bones using various surgical methods, ranging from splints and casts for minor fractures to metal plates and screws for more severe cases.
Ligament repair is implemented to restore stability in animals’ joints following damages that lead to lameness or discomfort, such as ruptured cruciate ligaments in the knee. Finally, we perform joint replacements where arthritic or damaged joints are swapped with artificial ones, helping ease pain and enhance mobility in your beloved companions.
Pre-surgical evaluations and diagnostics
Our experienced team provides comprehensive pre-surgical evaluations and diagnostics for your furry friends. We understand the importance of a thorough assessment before any surgical procedure, whether it’s a common fracture repair or a complex joint replacement.
Our veterinary surgeon will conduct necessary tests and examinations to ensure that your pet is in optimal condition for surgery. From blood work and X-rays to ultrasounds and other diagnostic procedures, we leave no stone unturned in identifying any potential risks or underlying conditions.
Rest assured that your pet will receive the highest level of care during this crucial phase of their treatment journey.
Post-surgical care and rehabilitation
After orthopedic surgery, we understand that your furry friend needs specialized care and support to aid in their recovery. Our experienced team at Plaza Animal Hospital is dedicated to providing comprehensive post-surgical care and rehabilitation for your pet.
We closely monitor their progress, ensuring they are comfortable and healing well. Our veterinarians will create a customized plan for their rehabilitation, which may include exercises, physical therapy, and medication management.
You can trust us to provide the highest quality of veterinary care during this crucial healing period.
Pain management
When it comes to orthopedic surgery for your pets, we understand the importance of managing their pain. Our skilled team of veterinarians prioritizes your furry friend’s comfort and well-being throughout their entire recovery process.
Using advanced techniques and medications, we create personalized pain management plans to ensure that your pet remains as comfortable as possible during their healing journey. From evaluating them before surgery to providing post-operative care, our compassionate staff closely monitors your pet’s pain levels and adjusts medications accordingly.
When you choose us for veterinary orthopedic surgery, know that your pet’s comfort is our top priority.
Follow-up examinations and regular check-ups
Following veterinary orthopedic surgery, our skilled team will arrange follow-up appointments and routine check-ups for your pet. These visits are crucial for tracking their recovery, ensuring proper healing of surgical wounds, and addressing any potential issues or complications that may arise.
Our veterinarian will conduct thorough examinations, assess movement capabilities, review X-rays if needed, and offer personalized care recommendations based on your furry friend’s specific requirements.
We recognize the significance of these follow-up visits in achieving a positive outcome for your cherished companion.
