Comparison of Complications and Outcomes of Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy With and Without In-Clinic Follow-Up

Introduction: Postoperative monitoring after a tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) involves radiographic assessments to evaluate surgical outcomes and ensure proper progress. This study investigates whether virtual assessments can serve as a viable alternative to in-clinic radiographs, reducing radiation exposure and time. Outcomes between two groups of patients were compared: those with 6-week postoperative radiographs (group 1) and those with 6-week virtual rechecks (group 2). We hypothesize that there will be no significant difference in complications between the two groups.

Materials and Methods: Dogs that underwent unilateral TPLOs performed by a board-certified surgeon from April 2022 to April 2023 (group 1) and from April 2023 to April 2024 (group 2) were assessed for complications up to 6 months postoperation. Group 1 (n = 357) received 6-week radiographs, while group 2 (n = 432) had 6-week virtual rechecks. LOAD score and owner compliance were recorded for both groups.

Results: No significant difference in complications were found between the in-person and virtual recheck methods (p = 0.35). LOAD score results revealed no significant difference in outcomes between the two groups (p = 0.064). Owner compliance rates at 2 weeks (p = 0.017) and 6 weeks (p < 0.05) showed a significant difference.

Discussion/Conclusion: This study identified no significant difference in complications or outcomes between the two groups, proving virtual rechecks as a viable alternative to in-person visits, offering an efficient and safer postoperative monitoring process for recovery. A significant difference in compliance rates was found and further research should be considered.

Acknowledgment

This project was funded by Capital Animal Hospital in Columbia, South Carolina.

 

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Publication History

Article published online:
15 July 2025