Orthopedic Surgery for Cats and Dogs
Orthopedic surgery involves both invasive and non-invasive surgical procedures that treat diseases of the joints and the skeletal system, as well as associated soft tissues including muscles, joint muscles, tendon, ligament, and cartilage.
Some conditions that may require orthopdic surgery are:
- Cranial cruciate ligament tear
- Fractured bones
- Hip dysplasia
- Luxating knee caps (patellar luxation)
- Bone cancer
- Arthritis
- Joint dislocations
At Paradise Animal Hospital and Wellness Centre, our surgeons have received specialized training in the following procedures:
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO)
This procedure removes a portion of the femur in the hip joint, reducing pain for patients with congenital conditions such as hip dysplasia and Legge-Calve-Perthes disease. An FHO may also be recommended as a salvage procedure in animals with severe degenerative joint disease or in some fractures involving the hip joint.
Extracapsular Lateral Suture Cruciate Ligament Repair
A ruptured cranial cruciate ligament is the most common orthopedic condition seen in general practice. This ligament is similar to the human ACL. When the CCL is torn or injured, the shin bone (tibia) slides forward with respect to the thigh bone (femur), which is known as a positive drawer sign. Most dogs with this injury cannot walk normally and experience excruciating pain. The resulting instability damages the cartilage and surrounding bones and leads to osteoarthritis (OA).
When the cranial cruciate ligament is torn, surgical stabilization of the knee joint is often required, especially in larger or more active dogs. Surgery is generally recommended as quickly as possible to reduce permanent, irreversible joint damage and relieve pain.
Several surgical techniques are currently used to correct CCL rupture. Each procedure has unique advantages and potential drawbacks. Your veterinarian will guide you through the decision-making process and advise you on the best surgical option for your pet.
In an extracapsular lateral suture repair, the knee joint is stabilized with a thick suture material, which does the job of the damaged CCL. This procedure also involves an arthrotomy, or inspection of the knee joint, to remove any remnants of the damaged ligament, to look for and repair a torn meniscus, and to assess the progression of degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis.
Leg and Tail Amputation
Amputation may be recommended due to cancer, severe trauma, or a birth defect which has resulted in an unusable leg or tail. A limb or tail with a severe wound or fracture that cannot be fixed due to any of innumerable reasons may also warrant an amputation.
Bone Fracture Repair
This procedure repairs damage in the continuity of the bone. There are many types of fractures seen in general practice. Fractures can occur from physical trauma or stress, and can also be a side effect of certain diseases such as osteoporosis and bone cancer. Fractures can be repaired with pins, bone plates, and screws.
What we do for every surgical patient
Pre-surgical examination
Every patient has a pre-admission exam with a doctor so we can tailor the anesthetic plan to your pet. On surgery day, the doctor or nurse admits your pet personally and answers any questions you have.
Pre-surgical blood work
Before any general anesthetic, we run blood work to confirm healthy liver and kidney function and to screen for anemia, infection, and other conditions — catching concerns early and adjusting the protocol if needed.
RVT-placed IV catheters
One of our Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) places an IV catheter in every surgical patient. This gives us immediate venous access — a secure, open line to deliver fluids, medications, or emergency drugs the instant they are needed.
IV fluid therapy
Every patient receives IV fluids throughout surgery. Because anesthetic drugs can lower blood pressure, fluids help maintain healthy blood pressure and steady blood flow to the organs (perfusion), keep your pet hydrated, and support a smoother recovery.
Constant vital-sign monitoring
We continuously monitor blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, temperature, and other vital signs, using the lowest effective level of anesthesia to keep your pet safe.
A dedicated personal nurse
Every surgical patient has their own nurse who stays with them from the start of the procedure right through recovery.
Active patient warming
We keep patients warm during surgery and recovery with “Hot Dog” warming systems and “Bair Hugger” forced-air warming. When extra warmth is needed, we add blankets, sweaters, and socks.
Proactive pain management
We watch closely for any signs of discomfort so pain medication — planned by the doctor before the procedure — can be given promptly and appropriately.
A discharge appointment
Later the same day, you will meet with a surgical nurse to review the procedure and exactly what to watch for once your pet is home.
Medication for home
Your doctor sends home pain medication for the days after surgery, plus a mild anti-anxiety medication when it will help your pet’s comfort and recovery.
More surgical services
The health, comfort, and safety of every patient is our greatest priority.
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