Intra- and interobserver measurement variability of tibial plateau slope from lateral radiographs in dogs

Measurement of the tibial plateau slope from lateral hind-limb radiographs is a preoperative requirement when performing tibial plateau leveling osteo tomy (TPLO) for repair of the cruciate-deficient stifle in dogs. Two measur ements of the tibial plateau slope in 312 stifles of 156 dogs were taken fr om lateral radiographs by each of three observers with varying degrees of e xperience in the measurement method. Intraobserver variability was +/-3.4 d egrees, and interobserver variability was +/-4.8 degrees, No significant di fferences were identified for the intraobserver measurements: however, in e valuating interobserver variability, a significant difference was found bet ween the inexperienced observer and the two experienced observers.