Hoku's Eight Week Post-Op (TPLO surgery) check up!

[Abulafia]

Well, today was the day. Hoku went in for her all-day post-op check-up: physical exam, x-rays on the TPLO knee, Physical Therapy.

The surgeon just called—her bone is entirely healed—more more quickly than he would have expected (he thought her young age / general health were to credit)! He said it looks perfect. They don't consider the leg fully healed yet, because she still needs to build up muscle, etc.—no crazy off leash or dog roughhousing for some time (he said a month, but I'll extend that to three or four)—but she's been cleared for freedom in the house, up and down stairs (which she's done from day one, on leash, of necessity), swimming, and hills / gentle hikes. And... the Beach! (On leash.) W00t!

[dxboon]

Congrats! Sounds like a great report! She'll be fully up and at 'em in a blink of an eye.

[janedoe]

Congratulations! It's so hard keeping them still, isn't it?

[Meeps83]

Woo hoo! Go Hoku!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[MightyThor]

Great update! I was just wondering about how her healing was going the other day.

[Labradorks]

Excellent!

[Abulafia]

Thanks, everyone—today was a huge relief. Though we've been exceedingly careful with her, and her use of the leg certainly seemed to be coming along well, there was always that worry.

I just read the surgeon's written report: they are delighted that the tibia is healed beyond their expectations. The implants are stable, osteotomy filling normally, normal patellar tendon—everything consistent w/ normal healing. Still no high-intensity activities, but a gradual increase in level of activity ahead.

Next weeks see increasing length of leash walks (she's on 3 x 30 minutes as of today), introducing more hills and steps. Less restriction inside (though still no going up the stairs to the second floor). After that, some longer-leash leashed walks, then some light trotting. She can starts swimming soon, too.

She has four more PT visits w/ the surgeon's office—she and her PT have developed a good relationship, and the PT noted today that she's a very quick learner: only have to show her once or twice what you want, and then she gets it and is eager.

So for others here going through this—or who may have to in the future—hopefully this is good news for you, too. The first days are so hard and stressful, but it's become easier and easier every day. Thank you all for your support here!

[POPTOP]

What fabulous news! So happy for the both of you. Won't be long now before complete freedom.

[Berna]

Great job! So glad to hear she has healed well!

[Remy]

That is such great news and very inspiring! Thanks for all the details too!