Canine THR is a surgical procedure in which the arthritic hip joint surfaces are replaced with a new prosthetic ball and socket. The prosthesis is designed to fit precisely and mimics the anatomy of the original joint. The arthritic joint is pain free after total hip replacement.
What is hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is an abnormal development and growth of the hip joint. Both hips are usually affected but symptoms may be more severe on one side. Hip dysplasia is manifested by varying degrees of laxity (looseness) of the hip joint with instability and malformation of the joint components. Arthritis is the long-term consequence of hip joint laxity.
Is My Dog a Candidate for THR?
The decision to proceed with THR is made after a thorough evaluation by our veterinary team. We look at several key factors to determine if your dog will benefit from the surgery:
Medical History
Many patients referred for hip replacement have other other orthopedic diseases and ultimtalely do not need a hip replacement.
Radiographs (X-rays)
We will perform calibrated radiographs to determine the appropriate size implants and evaluate each patient’s anatomy to confirm they
are a good candidate for the procedure.
Physical Examination
A comprehensive exam will allow the surgeon to assess your dog’s mobility, joint range of motion, and level of pain. The surgeon will also identify other conditions mimicking the symptoms of hip arthritis that may be treated with medicine or surgery.
Age and Size
While THR can be performed on most dogs, a dog should be skeletally mature (typically over 9-12 months of age). There is a wide range of implant sizes available to fit most breeds. Most dogs between 50 and 140 lbs are candidates for the procedure.
What does THR
surgery entail?
A THR involves removing both the arthritic ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) and replacing them with an artificial ball and socket joint. The surgical procedure is precisely planned using several radiographic (x-ray) views and specialized templates that match the available implant sizes. The average length of the procedure is THR surgical procedure is approximately 75 minutes.
During surgery, the arthritic femoral head is removed, the acetabulum is prepared by removing the surface bone and cartilage and the implant, consisting of a metallic cup and smooth plastic liner, is inserted. Next, the femur is prepared by drilling out the center of the bone and impacting a pressure fit titanium implant into the femur, and the femoral component (stem) is implanted. A new metallic head is then placed on the stem of the femur implant and the hip joint is reconnected. The hip is assessed for fit before the tissues are all closed. The femoral head (ball) is placed on the femoral stem, and the new joint is articulated by placing the femoral head (ball) within the acetabulum (socket).
What are the alternatives to Total Hip Replacement surgery?
Alternatives to THR include medical management of the pain or a surgical salvage procedure called a femoral head ostectomy (FHO). Medical management can include can include restoring a healthy weight, administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, nutritional supplementation, joint injections, or implementation of a rehabilitation program. FHO surgery removes the femoral head and neck, helping to relieve joint pain but altering the biomechanics of the hip joint.
for Owners
Preparing for your dog’s surgery is a team effort. Here’s what you can expect and how you can help ensure a smooth process.
Pre-Surgery
- Fasting guidelines will be provided.
- Anesthesia safety checks will be performed.
- You’ll have a chance to ask any final questions.
The Procedure
- Surgery can take 1–2 hours.
- Your dog will be under the care of a skilled surgical team.
- Pain management is a top priority throughout the process.
Post Surgery
- Your pet’s pain will be carefully monitored in the post-operative state.
- Each patient is walked with a sling to prevent slipping or falling.
- Patients are typically kept 1–2 days after surgery and sent home on oral medications.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
The recovery period is critical for a successful outcome. You will receive detailed instructions for your pet’s care, but here is a brief overview:
Strict Rest
For the first 6–8 weeks, your dog’s activity must be very restricted to
allow the new joint to heal and integrate. This means leash walks only. The activity will be gradually increased.
Physical Rehabilitation
We will provide a plan for controlled exercises to strengthen muscles
and improve mobility.
Medication
You will be sent home with pain medication and sedatives.
Follow-up Appointments
Regular check-ups and x-rays will be scheduled to monitor your dog’s
progress.
Risks and Complications
While THR is a very successful procedure with a high rate of success (over 95%), like any surgery, there are potential risks. Our team takes every precaution to minimize these. Potential complications include:
Infection
Even though we use strict sterile techniques and provide pre- and
post-operative antibiotics, bacteria can enter the blood stream from
a host of sources and can lead to implant infection. However this is
typically uncommon.
Dislocation
A sling or harness will be recommended for the first 2 months. All slick floors must be eliminated to avoid slip and fall injuries early in recovery.
Femoral Fracture
Certain breeds are more predisposed so precautions are taken to prevent this complication.
Implant Loosening
Over time, implants can loosen, which may require a revision surgery. This is uncommon with modern implants.
frequently asked questions
THR has been recommended to alleviate the pain and/ or disability associated with hip pathology. Specific common indications include arthritis secondary to hip dysplasia, traumatic hip luxation that cannot be maintained in place following reduction, specific indications associated with fractures of the femoral head or neck that do not have a good prognosis following surgical repair, and developmental problems such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head that leads to arthritis. The goal in all cases is to provide a pain-free joint and to restore normal joint function.
THR has been recommended to alleviate the pain and/ or disability associated with hip pathology. Specific common indications include arthritis secondary to hip dysplasia, traumatic hip luxation that cannot be maintained in place following reduction, specific indications associated with fractures of the femoral head or neck that do not have a good prognosis following surgical repair, and developmental problems such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head that leads to arthritis. The goal in all cases is to provide a pain-free joint and to restore normal joint function.
THR has been recommended to alleviate the pain and/ or disability associated with hip pathology. Specific common indications include arthritis secondary to hip dysplasia, traumatic hip luxation that cannot be maintained in place following reduction, specific indications associated with fractures of the femoral head or neck that do not have a good prognosis following surgical repair, and developmental problems such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head that leads to arthritis. The goal in all cases is to provide a pain-free joint and to restore normal joint function.
THR has been recommended to alleviate the pain and/ or disability associated with hip pathology. Specific common indications include arthritis secondary to hip dysplasia, traumatic hip luxation that cannot be maintained in place following reduction, specific indications associated with fractures of the femoral head or neck that do not have a good prognosis following surgical repair, and developmental problems such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head that leads to arthritis. The goal in all cases is to provide a pain-free joint and to restore normal joint function.
THR has been recommended to alleviate the pain and/ or disability associated with hip pathology. Specific common indications include arthritis secondary to hip dysplasia, traumatic hip luxation that cannot be maintained in place following reduction, specific indications associated with fractures of the femoral head or neck that do not have a good prognosis following surgical repair, and developmental problems such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head that leads to arthritis. The goal in all cases is to provide a pain-free joint and to restore normal joint function.
THR has been recommended to alleviate the pain and/ or disability associated with hip pathology. Specific common indications include arthritis secondary to hip dysplasia, traumatic hip luxation that cannot be maintained in place following reduction, specific indications associated with fractures of the femoral head or neck that do not have a good prognosis following surgical repair, and developmental problems such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head that leads to arthritis. The goal in all cases is to provide a pain-free joint and to restore normal joint function.
THR has been recommended to alleviate the pain and/ or disability associated with hip pathology. Specific common indications include arthritis secondary to hip dysplasia, traumatic hip luxation that cannot be maintained in place following reduction, specific indications associated with fractures of the femoral head or neck that do not have a good prognosis following surgical repair, and developmental problems such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head that leads to arthritis. The goal in all cases is to provide a pain-free joint and to restore normal joint function.
THR has been recommended to alleviate the pain and/ or disability associated with hip pathology. Specific common indications include arthritis secondary to hip dysplasia, traumatic hip luxation that cannot be maintained in place following reduction, specific indications associated with fractures of the femoral head or neck that do not have a good prognosis following surgical repair, and developmental problems such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head that leads to arthritis. The goal in all cases is to provide a pain-free joint and to restore normal joint function.
Get In Touch
Location
8033 Cooper Creek Boulevard,
#101, University Park,
Florida 34201
Phone
941.893.1500
Email
info@vscsarasota.com
Office Hours
Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday & Sunday – Closed