What are DPO and TPO Surgery for Dogs?

Double pelvic osteotomy (DPO) and triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO) are orthopedic surgeries performed on young dogs who have hip dysplasia. These procedures aim to improve hip joint alignment, reduce pain and lower the risk of arthritis in dogs.¹

Learn more about DPO/TPO surgery and how to determine if your dog is a good candidate. And find out how dog insurance could help you offset the potential costs.

Why Would a Dog Need DPO/TPO Surgery?

A dog could need DPO or TPO surgery if they have hip dysplasia – a genetic, developmental condition common in large breed dogs in which a dog’s hip joint doesn’t form properly. Specifically, the head (ball) of the thigh bone (femur) and the socket of the hip joint (acetabulum) don’t fit together as smoothly as they should. This causes instability in the joint, which is painful for dogs and can lead to arthritis.^1,2

Vets typically recommend DPO and TPO surgeries for dogs aged between 5 – 10 months who haven’t shown signs of arthritis yet.^1,2 Early treatment is necessary for preserving the dog’s natural hip joint and preventing arthritis.²

DPO vs TPO Surgery for Dogs: What’s the Difference?

TPO surgery involves making three strategic cuts to a dog’s pelvic bone and rotating it slightly so the ball and socket are better positioned for hip stability. Implants consisting of a plate and screws are then used to keep the pelvis in place.^1,3

Double pelvic osteotomy, or DPO, surgery is similar to TPO surgery with one notable difference: Two cuts are made into the pelvic bone instead of three.^1,3 Surgeons are often able to fix a dog’s hip dysplasia with a DPO instead of a TPO thanks to advancements in the implant technology that allow for just two cuts.¹

Vets generally prefer DPOs over TPOs because they’re less invasive and cause less pain to the dog. There is also less of a chance that the plate and screws will come loose after a DPO.^1,3

DPO/TPO Surgery: Recovery for Dogs

Immediately after the surgery, your dog will stay in the hospital for monitoring for a day or two. Your vet will probably prescribe pain medication and possibly antibiotics.^2,4 Your pup will probably have a bandage over the incision that needs to be kept clean. They may also need a sling near their hind legs for a couple of weeks to prevent slipping and falling when they go outside for bathroom breaks.⁴

While recovering at home, your dog should return to activity gradually. Your vet will give you guidelines for how much movement your dog should have as they heal. Following these rules is an essential part of the healing process and to ensure a successful surgery.^2,4 Usually about 6 to 8 weeks after surgery, you’ll bring your dog to a postop appointment where the vet or surgeon will examine and x-ray your dog to ensure proper healing. By 3 to 4 months after the procedure, your dog should be completely healed and able to move normally.⁴

Most DPO/TPO procedures are successful, with around 80% – 90% of dogs experiencing no complications and achieving either normal or near-normal function of the limbs postop.^1,4

Is a DPO/TPO Right For Your Dog?

A DPO/TPO procedure could be right for your dog if they meet the following criteria:^1,2,4

• They have hip dysplasia.
• They are between 5 months and 10 months old.
• They are a larger breed of dog.
• Little to no arthritis has set in.

If your pup meets these criteria, your vet may recommend DPO or TPO surgery to preserve the hip joint and prevent future arthritis.

DPO/TPO Surgery for Dogs: Cost Analysis

DPO and TPO surgeries are highly specialized and require advanced surgical expertise. That makes them more expensive than routine vet services. On average, dog owners can expect to pay between $1,200 and $2,000 per hip for a TPO.⁵

Other elements of the process will likely factor into the entire cost as well:⁵

• Initial consultation and examination
• Diagnostic imaging (x-rays, MRIs, etc.) before and after surgery
• Blood work
• General anesthesia
• Hospitalization and monitoring
• Pain medications and antibiotics
• Follow up appointments
• Treatment for any complications

Fortunately, since these surgeries have such a high success rate, complications are rare, especially for DPOs.¹ Even with the high costs involved, the problem should be fixed permanently. So the money spent is worth lifelong, fully functioning hips for your pup.

Dog Insurance Could Help You Cover DPO/TPO Surgery Costs

For young pups with hip dysplasia, a big surgery like a DPO or TPO is crucial to restoring hip movement and preventing pain. But the high cost can make dog owners hesitant. Thankfully, dog insurance can help pet parents pay for covered hip surgeries.

A dog owner in Tennessee noticed that their Irish setter puppy, Sampson, had started limping. They took him to the vet where he was diagnosed and later had DPO surgery. The total cost of the exams and surgery was around $2,700, and MetLife Pet covered over $2,300.⁷

Protect your wallet while you take care of your pup with a MetLife Pet insurance policy. Get a free quote to take the first step today.