Summary
Objectives: To prospectively compare the accuracy of three preoperative measurement techniques
in tibial plateau levelling osteo -tomy (TPLO) planning.
Methods: Fifty-nine dogs were randomly assigned to one of three measurement techniques; A,
B or C. Surgeons measured the intended osteotomy location on preoperative radiographs
according to the assigned technique. Measurements were used intra-operatively during
osteotomy placement. Postoperative measurements were made by a single blinded observer
and compared to preoperative measurements.
Results: Fifty-one dogs were included for final statistical analysis. The mean absolute differences
between pre- and postoperative measurements was 1.72 mm ± 0.958, 1.79 mm ± 1.010,
and 3.56 mm ± 1.839, for techniques A, B and C, respectively. No significant differences
were identified for patient age, gender, limb or surgeon. Techniques A and B were
not significantly different (p = 0.8799). Techniques A and B were significantly more
accurate than C (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0003, respectively). Weight was significantly
different among the groups (p = 0.047) but the statistical results did not change
when an adjustment was made for bodyweight (p = 0.4971, p <0.001 and p = 0.0007, respectively).
Clinical significance: Preoperative measuring for planning a TPLO osteotomy is recommended. Techniques A
and B in the current study were clinically practical and significantly more accurate
compared to technique C.
Keywords
Cranial cruciate ligament - tibial plateau levelling osteotomy - accuracy - dog -
stifle