Veterinary Surgery in Portland | BluePearl Pet Hospital Portland OR

BluePearl Pet Surgery
Portland, OR
Surgery

Specialty

Pet surgery by BluePearl.

Surgical suite

Conditions treated

Learn which conditions our specialty team can help diagnose and treat, so your pet gets the right care for their needs.

A BluePearl vet smiles and looks at a cat he is cradling in him arms during an exam.

Success stories

Discover how other pets have overcome their diagnoses with specialized care, giving you hope for your pet’s recovery.

A BluePearl client smiles while holding her dog at the front desk of the animal hospital.

Request appointment

Take the next step toward answers and treatment by scheduling a specialty consultation for your pet.

Precision care for what matters most – helping your pet live a longer and better life. Our specialized orthopedic vet services focus on TPLO surgery for dogs to improve joint stability.

We understand that seeing your pet experience an emergency or condition that requires surgery can be stressful. Our veterinary orthopedic surgeons employ advanced techniques and Service options to address each dog’s unique needs. Fortunately, our veterinary surgery team is made up of experts in performing complex procedures using the latest state-of-the-art techniques and equipment, and we’re here to help. We specialize in TPLO surgery, a key part of our orthopedic services for dogs.

Our commitment is not just to delivering highly advanced surgical care; it’s to enhance the well-being of your pet and be with you every step of the way.

A veterinary surgeon examines a dog

Conditions we treat.

A BluePearl anesthesiology and pain management vet prepares to fix an anesthetic facemask on a yellow lab while a vet tech helps hold the dog on the exam table.

If your pet has a condition or injury that requires advanced care and procedures, you’ll have an entire surgery team helping to improve your pet’s quality of life so you can get back to what matters most – spending precious moments together.

  • Chronic diseases like ear or respiratory tract infections
  • Congenital conditions like dysplasia or heart defects
  • Emergencies like swallowing a foreign body
  • Trauma or injuries, including knee injuries like CCL tears, which are a common case for TPLO surgery in dogs

Services we offer.

Your pet will receive unparalleled medical care during their time at the hospital (and they’ll be spoiled with love and attention, too).

Advanced diagnostics

Your pet can’t tell us what’s wrong, so we use sophisticated diagnostics and imaging tools to uncover the source of the problem.

  • Biopsy
  • Radiography (x-rays)
  • Ultrasound
  • CT

Treatment plans

Just as no two patients are the same, neither are their treatment plans. Our surgery team has experience with a range of advanced procedures and minimally invasive options to get your pet on the path to wellness, including:

  • Orthopedic surgery (for the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, such as the ACL tears and CCL tears and other knee injuries, and tendons)
  • Soft tissue surgery (for non-bone tissues and internal organs)

Our board certified specialists and surgery team.

Experience makes all the difference. 

Our surgery team is made up of veterinarians, vet technicians and assistants, and support staff with rigorous training and experience in specialty medicine. The team works hand in hand to provide the comprehensive, compassionate care your pet needs and deserves. Because we’re a multidisciplinary hospital, the team can consult the expertise of other specialty departments, too.

Krista Cioffi

DVM, MPH, DACVS (SA)
Board Certified in Small Animal Veterinary Surgery

Surgery
On the job

Dr. Krista Cioffi is passionate about orthopedic, neurologic, minimally invasive and soft tissue reconstructive surgeries. She has done over a thousand stifle arthroscopy and TPLO procedures, brought 3D custom angular limb corrections to the Portland area and is skilled in arthroscopic and laparoscopic procedures.

Dr. Cioffi is happy to be a surgeon and looks forward to helping you and your pet.

Education
  • Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons (Small Animal)
  • Residency, Small Animal Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
  • Internship, Small Animal Medicine & Surgery, University of Georgia, Athens
  • Master of Public Health, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA
  • Bachelor of Science, Animal Physiology, Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego
Off duty

Dr. Cioffi loves to help one of her favorite places, the Oregon Zoo, by volunteering her time and skill set to perform surgeries on exotic species when they need a specialist. She is also in the Junior League of Portland, where she volunteers in the greater Portland area.

Outside of work and volunteering, Dr. Cioffi enjoys traveling and exploring new places. She is passionate about learning, especially when it comes to history, science and cooking. She enjoys taking casual strolls with her dogs, delights in trying tasty restaurant experiences (her favorite being Italian) and loves snuggling up with an addicting book series.

John Kiefer

DVM, DACVS (SA)
Board Certified in Small Animal Veterinary Surgery

Surgery
On the job

Dr. John Kiefer’s primary focus is orthopedic surgery, including:

  • Fracture repair
  • TPLO
  • Computer-assisted angular limb deformity correction
  • BioMedtrix total hip replacement (with over a decade of experience)

They also enjoy challenging mass removals and other soft tissue procedures, and are always happy to consult with clients and referring veterinarians on a wide range of surgical cases.

Dr. Kiefer is proud to provide surgical care for dogs at Golden Bond and Pacific Pug rescues, helping adoptable dogs put their best foot forward in their new homes.

Education
  • Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons (Small Animal)
  • Residency, Small Animal Surgery, Veterinary Surgical Centers, Washington, D.C.
  • Internship, Small Animal Surgery, Long Island Veterinary Specialists, Plainview, NY
  • Internship, Small Animal Surgery, Veterinary Surgical Centers, Washington, D.C.
  • Internship, Small Animal Medicine & Surgery, Memphis Veterinary Specialists, TN
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus
Off duty

Outside of the hospital, Dr. Kiefer enjoys spending time with their dogs, Margot the Whippet and Hansel the Borzoi, and is an avid DIY enthusiast.

What to expect.

We want you to be prepared for your pet’s visit to the surgeon, so you have one less thing to worry about. Our entire BluePearl team will be with you every step of the way.

Before your visit.

Make a consultation appointment by calling us directly or via referral from your pet’s primary vet.

We’ll request records from your primary or emergency vet before your visit and collaborate with them to discuss your pet’s history and current condition.

During your visit.

When possible, we’ll examine your pet with you by their side to make them more comfortable. If additional tests are needed, we’ll discuss those options with you.

You’ll have plenty of time and opportunity to ask questions as we go over your pet’s diagnosis and treatment plan options together. We also ensure you are well-informed about TPLO and other orthopedic options available.

If appropriate, we’ll schedule your pet’s procedure and make sure you’re aware of any symptoms you should watch out for at home.

After your visit.

Our team will continue to partner with your primary veterinarian as part of the ongoing management of your pet’s care.

You know your pet better than anyone, and you play a crucial role in their treatment plan. If you have any concerns about providing care at home (such as giving medication, maintaining a specific diet or monitoring your pet’s symptoms), let us know – we’re here for you.

Frequently asked questions.

At BluePearl, our board-certified surgeons perform a wide range of procedures, including soft tissue surgery (like mass removals and gastrointestinal surgery), orthopedic surgery (for fractures, joint repair and cruciate ligament injuries) and advanced or minimally invasive procedures. Each surgery is tailored to your pet’s unique needs.
Your pet may need surgery if they have an injury, tumor, congenital condition or another medical issue that cannot be fully treated with medication or other therapies. BluePearl specialists work closely with your primary veterinarian to evaluate your pet and recommend surgery only when necessary.
Before surgery, our team performs a thorough examination, reviews lab results and discusses anesthesia and pain management plans. During surgery, your pet is carefully monitored by trained anesthesiologists and veterinary technicians. After surgery, our team provides post-operative care, including monitoring, medications and detailed home care instructions for a smooth recovery.
We use advanced anesthesia protocols tailored to each pet, with continuous monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels and breathing. Our anesthesiologists and surgical teams are trained to quickly address any complications, ensuring the highest level of safety during procedures.
Recovery time depends on the type of surgery and your pet’s overall health. Some pets recover within a few days, while others may need weeks to regain full strength. Your surgery team will provide a detailed recovery plan and schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing and adjust care as needed.
Pets may experience mild discomfort after surgery, but our surgery team uses comprehensive pain management strategies, including medications, to minimize discomfort. Our goal is to keep your pet as comfortable as possible throughout recovery.
Post-surgery care may include administering medications, limiting activity, monitoring incision sites and attending follow-up appointments. We'll make sure you have step-by-step instructions to help you support your pet’s healing and prevent complications.
While most surgeries are safe, risks can include infection, bleeding, anesthesia reactions or complications specific to the procedure. BluePearl surgeons review all potential risks with you before surgery and take every precaution to reduce them.
BluePearl uses multimodal pain management, including medications, local anesthetics and other therapies tailored to your pet and the type of surgery. Our goal is to ensure pets recover comfortably and maintain their quality of life.
Yes. BluePearl offers minimally invasive procedures, including laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgeries, for many soft tissue and orthopedic conditions. These approaches often result in less pain, smaller incisions, and faster recovery times compared to traditional surgery techniques.
Soft tissue surgery focuses on organs, skin and other non-bony structures, such as tumor removal or gastrointestinal procedures. Orthopedic surgery addresses bones, joints, ligaments and tendons, such as fracture repair or cruciate ligament surgery. BluePearl surgeons specialize in both surgical areas.
Many pets are able to go home the same day, especially for routine or minimally invasive procedures. Some complex surgeries or pets requiring extended monitoring may stay at the hospital overnight to ensure their safety and comfort.
Monitor your pet for swelling, redness, bleeding, changes in appetite, vomiting or unusual behavior. If you notice any concerning signs, contact us immediately. Early detection helps prevent potential complications.
To schedule a surgical consultation, just give us a call. For your appointment, please bring your pet’s medical history, recent test results and any imaging or lab reports, if available. Our surgeons will review your pet’s condition and create a personalized surgical plan in collaboration with you and your pet's primary veterinarian.
Not all veterinary specialists perform surgery. BluePearl surgeons are board-certified or specially trained in surgical procedures. While some specialists may perform minor procedures, complex surgeries are best handled by our dedicated surgical team to ensure safety and optimal outcomes.
“The hard work and dedication of both teams was inspiring,” said Sierra, reflecting on Everest’s care at both hospitals. “No one gave up on him and because of that he thrived and was able to come to his forever home.” Read Everest's story.
“I cried so many happy tears and I am forever grateful to this team. Dr. Duffy walked us through what we needed to do moving forward, and I put full trust in her recommendations. She always made us feel so welcome, remembered Malakai, and was excited to see his progress. I will never forget the people who helped me, my dog and our family on our scariest days.”
Read Malakai's story.
“Eight weeks later and he got the all-clear from the surgeon to resume normal activity over the next two weeks! It's been a long (and emotional) road, but I'm so happy my guy will live many more years free of pain! He's got bionic legs now. BluePearl is the best of the best. I highly recommend Dr. Salas and their entire team to everyone.”
Read Cooper's story.