the joint capsule and abnormal cartilage wear -Inflammation and pain result from the altered joint mechanics and cartilage destruction -Arthritis and reformation of the hip bones progress over time
Clinical signs you might notice in your pet -Stiffness of the hind legs upon rising, particularly after long periods of rest -Reluctance to climb stairs or jump -Tiring easily with play -Resting more than other dogs of similar age and breed -"Clunking" noise when walking -"Bunny hopping" to gain speed when trotting or running
Diagnosis -Careful orthopedic examination to determine which joint(s) are affected -Sedated examination to determine the degree of hip looseness and severity of cartilage damage (degenerative joint disease/arthritis) -Precisely positioned x-rays are taken to document the degree of hip looseness and severity of bone reformation related to cartilage wear
Surgical treatment -Depending on patient age and diagnostic findings, recommended surgical options may include: -Rearrangement of the angle at which the components of the hip meet (triple pelvic osteotomy/TPO)-most commonly used for young dogs without significant cartilage wear (arthritis) or bony reformation -Replacement of the components of the hip (total hip replacement)-most commonly used for older dogs or those with significant arthritis or bony reformation -Alteration of the hip joint to prevent painful bone contact (femoral head and neck ostectomy/FHO)-most commonly used for smaller dogs
Special postoperative care -If a triple pelvic osteotomy or total hip replacement was performed: -Patient activity is strictly limited until adequate healing occurs, usually 6-12 weeks -X-rays will be taken at specific intervals to evaluate healing at the surgery site -If femoral head and neck ostectomy was performed, physical therapy will be initiated within several days of surgery, and is usually continued 4-8 weeks
Expected results after surgery -If a triple pelvic osteotomy was performed, pain is generally relieved, limb use becomes more normal, and the patient does not develop significant hip arthritis -If a total hip replacement was performed, pain is relieved, limb use becomes more normal, and arthritis is permanently relieved -If a femoral head and neck ostectomy was performed, a mild limp will likely remain, but pain and arthritis are relieved