The most common reason for performing a total hip replacement for dogs is to alleviate pain and restore motion in companion animals that have been diagnosed with severe degenerative joint disease secondary to hip dysplasia. Additional indications for this surgery include:
- Coxofemoral luxation that is not amendable to either closed or open reduction
- Capital epiphyseal and femoral neck fractures that cannot be repaired
- Coxofemoral arthritis secondary to acetabular or femoral malunions
- Avascular necrosis of the femoral head (Legg-Perthes Disease)
- Painful previously performed femoral head ostectomies
What Are the Benefits of THR?
A common cause of hind limb lameness, hip dysplasia can impact your pet’s quality of life, resulting from inflammation and pain. One of the most apparent benefits associated with a total hip replacement for dogs is dramatic pain relief. Almost all our patients experience incredible results, resuming a healthy, pain-free life. Many of our patients have even achieved a greater range of motion and discontinuation of limping.
Success Rate of Total Hip Replacement for Dogs
This surgical procedure’s success rate is incredibly high, with more than 95% of our patients regaining normal, pain-free function of their hip joint. That is expected to remain fully functional for a minimum of ten years, but under normal conditions, most of our patients do not experience a repeated occurrence of pain for the rest of their lives. Global Veterinary Specialists has followed over 650 THR recipients throughout their lifespan following surgery.
It is critical to follow postoperative care instructions, including temporarily restricting activities, to prevent complications. Still, most animals can resume normal activities following a total hip replacement for dogs. However, some high-agility sports such as agility or flyball may best be avoided, especially if your pet did not participate in those activities’ before surgery.
Global Veterinary Specialists recognize that dogs and cats encounter orthopedic injuries, disabling difficulties, and diseases that can impact their quality of life. Each GVS surgeon has more than twenty years of experience treating complex problems that may arise in your pets.
We are teachers, mentors, inventors, clinical researchers, and veterinary surgeons driven to achieve excellence for every animal we see. Please contact us today to learn how we treat hip dysplasia and restore your pet’s quality of life.
Resources:
“Outcomes for total joint replacement in dogs and cats.” Global Veterinary Specialists.
