Preliminary experiences of the triple tibial osteotomy procedure: tibial morphology and complications

To document the effect of variable tibial morphology on the planning and execution of the triple tibial osteotomy (TTO) procedure in dogs and complications encountered while becoming familiar with the technique.

The records of 21 consecutive cases that had a TTO performed were reviewed. Preoperative tibial morphology was assessed. Modifications in the described technique and complications were documented. Postoperative outcome was evaluated using a client-based questionnaire.

The size of the tibial wedge ostectomy was modified because of variable tibial morphology in four dogs (19 per cent) to avoid over or under correction of the tibial plateau angle (TPA). Intraoperatively, fracture through the caudal tibial cortex occurred in nine cases (41 percent) and through the distal tibial crest cortex in four cases (18 percent). Major complications occurred in five (23 per cent) of cases with four (18 per cent) requiring further surgery. The client questionnaire results demonstrated significant improvements in all parameters and no significant difference from the preinjury status.

TPA measurement is recommended when planning a TTO to avoid over or under correction of the TPA. Despite frequent minor complications, it appears that the TTO is an effective procedure for management of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in the dog.