Common Orthopedic Problems That Need Pet Surgery

Common Orthopedic Problems That Need Pet Surgery

One of the most common surgeries veterinarians performs is fixing broken bones in pets like dogs and cats. Regarding musculoskeletal problems, veterinarians are just as likely to turn to orthopedic surgery as human physicians. Injuries to the joints, such as torn ligaments, or degenerative disorders, such as hip dysplasia, can be treated well with orthopedic surgery.

Typical Orthopedic Issues that Require Pet Surgery

It’s understandable if you’re on the fence about whether or not your pet needs veterinary orthopedic surgery. Here are the top three canine orthopedic issues that may require surgical intervention:

Hip Dysplasia

Your pet may be at risk for developing hip dysplasia due to a hereditary predisposition. Daily anti-inflammatory medicine is the standard treatment, but if your pet develops arthritis in the joint, titanium replacements may be necessary. 

Hip replacement surgery is lengthy and expensive, but it can improve your pet’s quality of life. There are several telltale symptoms that your pet may be suffering from hip dysplasia, including:

• The trouble with high-impact activities like leaping, sprinting, or stair climbing
• Ealking with a sway
• Unusually large gap between your pet’s legs
• Limited ability to move and limber up
• Lack of strength or stamina in the rear

Imagine if painkillers and other medications no longer help your pet. Should that happen, a referral to an orthopedic surgeon for a joint replacement may be in order.

Patellar Dislocation

The kneecap can also be referred to as the patella. When an animal’s patella isn’t functioning properly, it might dislodge from the groove that keeps it in place. This is usually the result of a too-shallow groove. 

The most common canine knee abnormalities are patellar luxation or dislocation of the kneecap, which is especially common in small and toy dog breeds. Most cases of patellar luxation can only be fixed by surgery. To learn more about pet care, just click on the link.

There are a few telltale indications that your pet may be suffering from a dislocated knee:

• Obvious pain
• Biting or licking the knee
• Limping
• Reluctance to walk 
• Inability to put any pressure on the leg

Tearing of the Cruciate Ligament

A tear in the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is a common knee injury. ACL tears, unlike sprains, do not heal with time or treatment.

A cruciate ligament rupture in an animal, like a torn one in a human, requires surgical repair to prevent the development of severe and debilitating arthritis. Your veterinarian can help you choose which of the several cruciate ligament surgery options is best for your pet.

Any of the following might indicate that your pet has a torn cruciate ligament:

• Abnormal posture while seated
• Involuntary stumbling might occur at any time throughout a task.
• Back-leg stiffness, both sides
• Knee joint thickening and edema
• Clicking
• Licking or biting the knee joints

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To End

Suppose you and your physician determine that your pet’s suffering is caused by injury to their musculoskeletal system. In that case, it is crucial to consider orthopedic surgery. Imagine seeing your pet hobbling or in obvious pain when on the go. 

This might be an indication of some bone tissue. It is in your pet’s best interest to get a proper diagnosis to receive treatment to end their suffering and improve their quality of life.