We are proud to offer some of the most advanced surgical procedures available to help improve your pet's health and quality of life. Our skilled orthopedic team is experienced in treating a variety of conditions with cutting-edge techniques to restore mobility, alleviate pain, and enhance recovery. Below are the specialized surgeries we offer to ensure your pet receives the best care possible:
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO)
What is TPLO?
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) is a specialized procedure used to treat cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears in dogs. The CCL is a crucial ligament that helps stabilize the knee joint. When it tears, it leads to instability, pain, and difficulty walking.
How it Works:
In TPLO surgery, the tibia (shin bone) is repositioned and reshaped to change the angle of the tibial plateau. This helps to stabilize the knee joint without the need for an artificial ligament. The procedure corrects the abnormal forces in the knee, allowing the joint to heal and function properly. TPLO is considered one of the most effective treatments for CCL injuries, especially in larger or more active dogs. It has a high success rate for restoring joint stability and function, with quicker recovery times compared to traditional methods.
Patella Luxation Correction
What is Patella Luxation?
Patella luxation occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal groove in the knee joint. This can result from trauma, genetics, or abnormal joint structure. It causes pain, lameness, and difficulty walking.
How it Works:
During patella luxation surgery, the veterinary surgeon realigns the patella and may deepen the groove in which the kneecap sits. In some cases, surrounding soft tissues may need to be tightened to ensure the patella stays in place. This procedure aims to restore the knee's normal function and prevent future dislocations. Correcting patella luxation helps to prevent long-term joint damage, reduce pain, and restore mobility. This procedure is especially important for dogs with chronic lameness or arthritis caused by repeated patellar dislocations.
Fracture Repair
What is Fracture Repair?
Pets, particularly active ones, can suffer from bone fractures caused by accidents or trauma. If left untreated, fractures can result in pain, improper healing, or long-term complications.
How it Works:
Fracture repair involves various techniques depending on the type and location of the break. Common methods include:
- Plates and Screws: Used to stabilize the bone, especially in long bones like the femur or tibia.
- Intramedullary Pins: Metal rods inserted into the center of the bone to align and hold it in place during healing.
- External Fixators: A frame placed outside the body, connected to pins inserted into the bone to stabilize it externally.
The approach chosen will depend on the type of fracture, the size of the pet, and the location of the injury. Proper fracture repair ensures that bones heal correctly, reducing the risk of long-term joint issues or malunion (improper healing). It is essential to provide immediate and effective treatment to minimize pain and promote the best possible recovery for your pet.
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) / Toggle for Hip Disease
What is FHO?
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) is a surgical procedure used to treat hip disease, such as hip dysplasia or severe arthritis, when other treatment options have failed. The surgery involves the removal of the femoral head (the "ball" of the hip joint), which eliminates the source of pain and allows the surrounding muscles to compensate by forming a "false joint."
How it Works:
After removing the femoral head, the soft tissues around the joint (muscles, ligaments) form a new, functional joint, allowing your pet to regain movement and reduce pain. Over time, your pet will learn to rely on the surrounding muscles for stability and support. FHO is a great option for pets with hip dysplasia or severe arthritis, especially when other procedures, such as total hip replacement, are not feasible. It provides significant pain relief and restores mobility, especially in younger dogs, smaller pets, or those in need of a less invasive solution.
Contact Us
If your pet requires surgery or you are seeking a consultation for any of these procedures, don't hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help provide the care and expertise your pet deserves.
Meet our Orthopedic Team!
