Two Locations · Florence & Hartsville
Orthopedic Surgery
For emergency services during office hours please call (843) 779-5125.
Advanced TPLO & Orthopedic Surgery for Pets in Hartsville and Florence, SC

Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO)
What It Is
TPLO is the gold standard surgery for treating cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries in dogs. This procedure changes the angle of the tibial plateau to stabilize the knee, improving function and reducing long-term joint pain.
What It Treats
- CCL injuries (similar to ACL tears in people)
- Lameness and instability in the hind leg
- Joint pain caused by ligament damage
Benefits of TPLO Surgery
- Most dogs begin walking on their leg within 24 hours
- Faster return to normal activity compared to other repair methods
- High long-term success rate with restored mobility and reduced pain
Recovery Timeline
Healing typically takes 8–12 weeks. Our team provides step-by-step recovery plans and rehabilitation guidance to help your pet return to daily activity safely.
Orthopedic Surgery for Pets
In addition to TPLO, Florence and Hartsville Animal Hospitals offer a full range of orthopedic surgeries for pets with broken bones, joint instability, or chronic pain.

Fracture Repair for Broken Bones
From accidents to sudden injuries, pets can suffer broken or fractured bones. We use advanced surgical techniques such as bone plating, external fixators, and bone grafts to repair fractures, restore limb function, and often avoid amputation.

Patella Luxation Correction
Kneecap instability (luxating patella) can make it painful for pets to walk or run. Using corrective techniques like Tibial Tuberosity Transposition and Trochleoplasty, we stabilize the knee and improve long-term mobility.

Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO)
FHO is a specialized surgery often recommended for pets with severe hip dysplasia, certain hip fractures, or avascular necrosis of the femoral head. By removing the damaged femoral head, FHO relieves pain and helps pets regain comfort and independence.
The Goal of Every Orthopedic Surgery
Our mission is to restore comfort, improve mobility, and give your pet the best chance at an active, pain-free life.
Why Choose Florence and Hartsville Animal Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery?
Local, Experienced Care
Advanced orthopedic surgeries available close to home.
Dedicated Recovery Support
Detailed aftercare and rehabilitation planning.
State-of-the-Art Techniques
TPLO, fracture repair, FHO, and more with proven results.
Compassionate Team
We treat every pet as if they were our own.
FAQs about Orthopedic Surgery and TPLO
How do I know if my dog needs TPLO surgery?
If your dog has a torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), you may notice lameness, difficulty bearing weight, or reluctance to run or jump. TPLO is often recommended as the most reliable long-term solution for CCL injuries.
What is recovery like after orthopedic surgery?
Most pets recover within 8–12 weeks after surgery, depending on the procedure. We provide a detailed recovery plan and rehabilitation guidance to help your pet heal safely.
Are broken bones always treated with surgery?
Not always. Some simple fractures can heal with splints or casts, but many broken or fractured bones require surgical repair to ensure proper alignment and long-term mobility.
What is FHO surgery used for?
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) is commonly performed to treat severe hip dysplasia, hip fractures, or degeneration of the hip joint. It helps relieve pain and allows pets to adapt to comfortable movement without the damaged femoral head.
Is orthopedic surgery safe for older dogs?
Yes, many older dogs benefit from orthopedic surgery. Before recommending surgery, our team evaluates your pet’s overall health and uses advanced monitoring to keep your pet safe throughout the procedure.
Learn more about senior pet safety in surgery through this resource.