How To Take TPLO Radiographs

Overview:

  • Views REQUIRED: Lateral stifle, AP/PA stifle, VD extended pelvis

  • Additional RECOMMENDED views: contralateral stifle views, lateral hip/pelvis

  • Include our custom Jewel Veterinary Surgery calibration marker (metal business card). The center circle is a specific calibration marker to plan for implants needed.

  • Sedation is recommended to minimize stress and have successful positioning. 

  • Please use radiation safety protocols! Your staff safety is important to us. Please use all appropriate protective lead equipment and no exposed hands!

  • Both stifle views will also be needed after surgery for all TPLOs.

Lateral stifle view:

  • Patient is in lateral with affected leg down

  • Stifle and hock are each flexed to 90 degrees

  • Collimate to include hock in radiograph 

  • Femoral condyles are superimposed

  • The leg is parallel to the table

Anteroposterior (AP) or Posteroanterior (PA) stifle view:

AP

PA

  • Position patient in dorsal (AP) or sternal recumbency (PA)

  • Patella is centered and fabellas are centered over condyles

  • Collimate to Include hock and mid level of femur

  • Extend limb caudally and rotate limb medially to get patella centered

  • The leg is parallel to the table

VD extended pelvis view:

  • Collimate to include pelvis and stifles

  • Spine should be centered and straight

  • Consider placing front half of patient in a trough to keep the front of the body from rotating while lower back/pelvis rests on the table

  • Extend both legs together while parallel to the table

  • Patellas are centered (internal rotation of the thigh is often needed)