The Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners convened on January 23, 2024, to address several pressing issues within the veterinary field, focusing on regulatory practices and the oversight of surgical procedures.

The meeting began with a review of ongoing concerns regarding the CBLO (Cranial-Based Osteotomy) surgical technique, which has been under scrutiny since its introduction by a Texas A&M University orthopedic surgeon in 2009. The board discussed the implications of this procedure, particularly its stability issues compared to the more established TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy). The surgeon's admission that CBLO required different implants due to its unique bone cut raised alarms about the safety and efficacy of the technique.

A significant point of discussion was the lack of research protections when the CBLO was performed outside of academic settings. The board noted that the surgeon had transitioned to private practice, where regulatory oversight is less stringent. This led to concerns about the ethical implications of using private practice patients for experimental procedures without proper consent or oversight.

The case of a dog named Lightning was highlighted during the meeting. Lightning's owner recounted the unfortunate experience of their pet undergoing CBLO without their knowledge, resulting in severe complications and ultimately, the dog's early death. This case underscored the need for better communication and transparency between veterinarians and pet owners regarding surgical procedures and their potential risks.

The board also addressed complaints filed against the surgeon involved in Lightning's case. It was noted that previous complaints had not been handled appropriately, raising questions about the accountability of veterinary professionals and the effectiveness of the board's regulatory processes.

In conclusion, the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners emphasized the importance of ensuring that veterinary practices adhere to ethical standards and regulatory requirements. The discussions highlighted the need for improved oversight of surgical techniques and better communication with pet owners to prevent future incidents similar to Lightning's case. The board plans to follow up on these issues in future meetings to enhance the safety and welfare of animals under veterinary care.