Hi Caroline, Charleigh had both knees TPLO'd (a little over a year apart) and returned to playing flyball less that 6 months after each. (Not to mention hiking and swimming etc etc etc.)
Good going getting her used to taking potty breaks on leash.
I think the collar you're thinking of is called the Bite Not?, or something like that. I'd seriously think about it. Char never messed with any sutures she'd had before either, but she licked a raw spot on her first TPLO leg before I knew what she was up to. The LAST thing you want to happen is for bacteria to be introduced into her incision. As far as not fitting into a crate with an e-collar, will she stay in an x-pen? That's what I used and it worked great. I had one set up in the bedroom and one in the living room so she could be near me. I also kept her leashed to me alot so she could just "hang out."
Floors...are yours carpeted? Any slick areas (like tile or linoleum) she'll have to walk over? If so, pick up some cheapy non-skid mats or carpet runners at Home Base/Lowe's or whoever you have and put them down.
I used a canvas shopping bag cut in half as a sling. I only used it for the first couple days...I was a klutz with it and it REALLY annoyed her, too. I HAVE seen "real" slings at PetSmart, too, if you're inclined to have a fancy one.
Stock up on CHEWIES! Bully Sticks (expensive) and cow hooves (not so), kept us all from going nuts.
That's all I can think of for now but I've only had 1 cup of coffee.
