Hip Surgeries

Hip Problems

Hip problems are common in pets, especially in certain dog breeds and older animals. Various conditions, including hip dysplasia, Luxation arthritis, and traumatic injuries, can lead to pain and mobility issues. Fortunately, several surgical and non-surgical treatments are available to help pets live more comfortably.

Hip Luxation

Genetics: It is often an inherited condition, particularly in small breeds like Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire Terriers.
Trauma: Injuries to the knee can lead to patellar luxation.
Anatomical Abnormalities: Structural issues in the bones or muscles can predispose a pet to this condition

Hip Dysplasia

Breed: Small dog breeds are more commonly affected.
Age: Young dogs may show signs early, but older pets can also develop the condition due to wear and tear.
Weight: Obesity can exacerbate the problem by putting extra stress on the knee joint.

Arthritis

Limping or Skipping: Pets may intermittently hold up the affected leg or skip while walking.
Knee Popping: You might notice the knee joint “popping” in and out of place.
Lameness: In severe cases, pets may struggle to walk or bear weight on the affected leg.
Pain: Pets may show signs of discomfort, such as yelping or reluctance to move.

Hip Toggle Surgery

Surgical intervention is often necessary to correct hip luxation in dogs, a condition where the head of the femur slips out of the hip socket, leading to significant pain and lameness.

The hip toggle technique involves utilising a toggle pin or a similar device to securely reposition the femoral head within the acetabulum, which is the socket of the hip joint. This procedure effectively stabilises the joint, facilitating optimal healing. Typically, the toggle pin is inserted through a small incision and firmly anchored to the bone to ensure the luxated hip joint remains properly aligned during the recovery process.

Hip Luxation

Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO)

FHO surgery is generally advised for pets experiencing issues like hip dysplasia, hip arthritis, traumatic hip injuries, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, or avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

FHO Procedure

Once the pet is under anesthesia, the surgical site at the hip joint is meticulously prepared, and an incision is made to access the hip joint. The surgeon skillfully removes the femoral head from the femur with specialized surgical instruments, eliminating the painful bone-on-bone contact that leads to discomfort in the hip joint. Following the removal of the femoral head, the surrounding muscles and soft tissues are carefully repositioned and sutured to ensure lasting stability and support.

FAQ

Hip toggle recovery?

Hip toggle surgery requires a period of rest and limited activity to promote healing at the surgical site. To alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of infection, pain management medications and antibiotics may be prescribed. Additionally, physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are often recommended to enhance muscle strength and improve joint function.

FHO Recovery?

Recovery from FHO surgery usually requires a period of rest and limited activity to promote healing at the surgical site Pain management medications and antibiotics may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort and avert infection Additionally physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are often recommended to enhance muscle strength and mobility

Book an Appointment:

If your pet has a fracture that may require surgery, contact us to schedule a consultation. Our team is ready to provide the expert care needed to help your pet recover and get back to their active self.