Dog ACL / CCL Tear Surgery (TPLO) Cost Guide
Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL/ACL) rupture is a common cause of rear-leg lameness in dogs. Repair options include Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) and lateral suture. Ask your veterinarian for a written estimate.
Published figures
Published range for canine TPLO surgery: $2,793–$6,417 (state averages from one survey) and $3,300–$4,200 per side (one teaching hospital).
Range based on the published sources listed below (retrieved Nov 4, 2026). Prices vary by region, clinic and case. This is not a quote or a prediction of what you will pay.
Figures are those published by the sources named; they are not a price for your area or clinic.
Sources
- Synchrony's 2025 Average Procedural Cost Study (survey-based state averages, published by CareCredit; CareCredit is a financial product provider) reports state averages for canine TPLO surgery from $2,793 to $6,417; national average $3,525.carecredit.com · retrieved Nov 4, 2026
- Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (teaching hospital; clinical-research consent form, year not stated) estimates TPLO at $3,300–$4,200 per side.vetmed.vt.edu · retrieved Nov 4, 2026
Page last edited November 10, 2026
Bill line items you may see
Veterinary hospitals do not charge a single flat fee. These line items show how a procedure bill might be organized. No amounts are shown; ask the clinic for a written estimate.
| Bill line item | Note |
|---|---|
| Orthopedic Specialist Consultation & Physical Exam | Comprehensive orthopedic gait evaluation |
| Pre-operative Stifles Radiographs (X-rays under sedation) | Precise tibial plateau angle measurement |
| General Inhalation Anesthesia & Cardiopulmonary Monitoring | Dedicated registered veterinary technician monitoring |
| TPLO Surgical Procedure & Titanium Implants / Plates | Surgical suite fee, sterilized implant hardware |
| Post-op Hospitalization & Pain Management Infusion (IV CRI) | Overnight monitoring in ICU |
| Take-home Medications (NSAIDs, Gabapentin, Antibiotics) | Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication as prescribed |
| 8-Week Bone Healing Follow-up X-rays | Follow-up X-rays to check healing, as directed by the surgeon |
General clinic vs. emergency center
Emergency and specialty hospitals can cost more. Ask each hospital for a written estimate.
Daytime general clinic
Scheduled during standard daytime hours with a primary care veterinarian.
Emergency / referral center
Services, staffing, and hours vary — call the hospital to confirm.
Why it varies: Fees differ between daytime general clinics and emergency or specialty animal hospitals depending on hours, staffing, and the care required. Not every clinic offers every procedure — call the hospital to confirm what it offers and ask for a written estimate.
Frequently asked questions
Can a dog recover from an ACL tear without surgery?
Some dogs, particularly smaller ones, may be managed without surgery using strict rest, bracing, and physical therapy. Whether that is appropriate depends on your dog’s size, activity level, and exam findings — ask your veterinarian or a veterinary surgeon.
Why does TPLO cost so much more than human ACL repair?
Costs can include general anesthesia with continuous monitoring, a sterile surgical suite, implant systems such as locking plates, and post-operative hospitalization. Ask your veterinarian for an itemized estimate.
Does pet insurance cover ACL surgery if already diagnosed?
It depends on the policy. Many policies exclude conditions diagnosed before coverage started or during a waiting period. Check your policy terms, waiting periods, and pre-existing condition rules, or ask your insurer.
Estimate Insurance Reimbursement for Dog ACL (TPLO) Surgery
Estimate your reimbursement and out-of-pocket expenses for Dog ACL (TPLO) Surgery.
Enter the amount from your own written estimate or bill.
Insurer Websites (no recommendation)
Spot Pet Insurance
Plan detailsReview coverage, exclusions, and policy terms at Spot.
Waiting period: Check current policy terms
Lemonade Pet
Plan detailsReview coverage, exclusions, and policy terms at Lemonade.
Waiting period: Check current policy terms
Financial Disclaimer: Estimates only. Not veterinary medical advice or an insurance binder. Final reimbursement depends on your specific policy terms, pre-existing conditions, and claims adjudication.