Total Hip Replacement for Dogs
The objective of total hip replacement (THR) is to establish a pain free joint with normal biomechanical function in medium, large, and giant breed dogs (weighing over 20 pounds). When this procedure is performed by one of our highly-qualified surgeons, all potential risks are minimized, ensuring your pet’s complete recovery. To determine if your pet is a suitable candidate for total hip replacement, please discuss their specific problem, and all available options, with your veterinarian.
System
The Global Veterinary Specialists surgeons have been performing hip replacement surgeries for over 20 years. Instrumentation and implants are state-of-the-art with high quality and durability. During the course of your pet’s lifespan, the new hip will not wear out. We use both the cementless and cemented prosthesis manufactured by BioMedtrix. Each total hip replacement consists of three components – the femoral head, the femoral stem, and the acetabulum. All prostheses are available in a broad range of sizes (16) and are interchangeable for a custom fit.
Surgical Technique
The most common indications for total hip replacement surgery include, but are not limited to: hip dysplasia, arthritis due to wear and tear, hip luxation that cannot be managed by other methods, femoral head / neck fractures not amenable to repair, healed fractures with resultant secondary arthritis, and avascular necrosis of the femoral head (Legg-Perthes disease). Total hip replacement is recommended only after all conservative options have been considered &/or attempted. Bilateral THRs are occasionally done when there are no better options.
The surgery technique used for total hip replacement is similar to that performed in humans. The complication rate is low due in large part to our experienced team and dedication to safety at all times. The safest anesthetic and pain management agents are used and all vital statistics are continually monitored.
Most patients walk on their new hip the day after surgery and are mobile upon release from the hospital. Regardless of how well they are doing, it is important to limit activity after surgery for the first 6 weeks. You must remain firm on this! It is a generally a good idea to put them in a small area or crate during this time. They should be on a good traction surface indoors, and on a leash when outdoors to eliminate. After the 5-6 week recheck exam, you will be given instructions on when to take your pet on short walks, generally two times a day for about 1 month.
Qualified Surgeons
Global Veterinary Specialists is staffed by an exceptional team of highly-qualified board-certified veterinary surgeons with extensive joint replacement surgery experience. All of the surgeons are dedicated to using their expertise to improve the level of patient care and to expand the knowledge of veterinary joint replacement surgery – worldwide. The board certified veterinary surgeons have performed over 1700 hip replacement procedures.
You, your veterinarian, and your surgeon each play a key role in the team to ensure the success of the total hip replacement surgery. Additional information can be found by clicking on any of the above links, or by visiting our website at www.globalvetspecialists.org.
