We are pleased to now offer a range of orthopaedic surgical procedures here at Melba Veterinary Clinic, allowing more of our patients to receive their surgery and ongoing care with the team they already know and trust.
Our orthopaedic procedures are performed by Dr Sunita Neville, who has undertaken further training in surgery and holds her Memberships in Small Animal Surgery.
Orthopaedic procedures we offer
Depending on your pet’s condition, we may be able to perform:
- TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy) for selected dogs with cranial cruciate ligament disease
- Medial Patellar Luxation (MPL) surgery
- Selected fracture repairs
- Other orthopaedic procedures following assessment
Not every orthopaedic condition is suitable for surgery at our clinic. Our veterinarians will assess your pet and discuss the most appropriate treatment options with you. Where a procedure requires specialist-level care or equipment, we will recommend referral to a veterinary surgical specialist.
TPLO Surgery
Cranial cruciate ligament disease is one of the most common causes of hindlimb lameness in dogs.
A TPLO changes the biomechanics of the knee joint to provide stability when the cruciate ligament is damaged or torn. For suitable patients, this can provide excellent return to comfortable function.
We currently offer TPLO surgery for selected dogs, with suitability determined following examination and assessment by our veterinary team.
Your dog’s care doesn’t end when their surgery is finished. We provide a structured post-operative recovery plan, pain management and scheduled rechecks to monitor their progress throughout rehabilitation.
Patellar Luxation Surgery
A luxating patella occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal position. It is particularly common in smaller breed dogs, although it can occur in dogs of any size.
Some dogs with mild patellar luxation can be managed without surgery, while others may benefit from surgical correction due to the severity of the luxation, discomfort or ongoing lameness.
Our veterinarians can assess your dog’s knees, discuss whether surgery is appropriate and develop an individual treatment plan.
Orthopaedic Assessment
If your pet has been diagnosed with an orthopaedic condition, or you have noticed limping, stiffness or difficulty using a limb, the first step is an assessment with one of our veterinarians.
Depending on the condition, further investigation may include:
- Orthopaedic examination
- X-rays
- Sedated examination or imaging
- Pre-operative blood testing
- Surgical planning
Following assessment, we will discuss the treatment options available, expected recovery, rehabilitation and costs before proceeding.
Keeping Your Pet’s Care Close to Home
Being able to provide selected orthopaedic procedures at Melba Vet means that suitable patients can have their diagnosis, surgery and recovery managed by our team in one place.
From their initial assessment and surgery through to pain management, post-operative checks and follow-up imaging, we’ll be there throughout their recovery.
To discuss whether your pet may be suitable for orthopaedic surgery, contact our team on (02) 6258 8272 to arrange an assessment.