Comparison of Intra- and Postoperative Complications between Bilateral Simultaneous and Staged Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy with Arthroscopy in 176 Cases

Abstract

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to compare the resulting short-term complications after simultaneous (SIM) or staged (ST) tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) in patients that presented with bilaterally torn cranial cruciate ligaments. Study Design This was a retrospective study. Materials and Methods Medical records of dogs diagnosed with bilateral cranial cruciate ligament disease that underwent bilateral SIM or ST TPLO surgery with arthroscopy (2005–2015) were reviewed to evaluate the intra- and postoperative complications. Data were analysed and major and minor complications were compared between the two groups. Results A total of 176 client-owned dogs (352 stifles) that had TPLO performed bilaterally with SIM or ST procedures were included for analysis. The overall complication rate was 47.5% for the SIM group and 19.5% for the ST group. The incidence of major complications was 10.1 and 3.8% in the SIM and ST groups respectively. Minor complications were 38.4 and 15.6% in the SIM and ST groups respectively. Tibial tuberosity fractures requiring revision were noted in 2% of the SIM group and none of the ST group. Clinical Significance Although no significant difference was noted in major complication rate or tibial tuberosity fractures in our cohort of patients, a Type II statistical error was found. The complication rate in the SIM group is numerically greater by a factor of 2–3× or more for nearly all categories. Surgeons should consider the risks and benefits of SIM versus ST procedures as well as relevant individual patient and client factors before electing either alternative.