At Northridge Animal Medical Center, we perform two types of hip surgeries for our canine and feline patients: femoral head ostectomy and total hip replacement. One of our specialties include our hip dysplasia treatment for dogs in Northridge.
Is hip surgery right for my pet?
There are a number of conditions that can be resolved with hip surgery. They include:
Hip dysplasia
When the hip develops abnormally, it can result in hip dysplasia – a painful, genetic condition. Hip dysplasia treatment for pets is a very common reason pets require hip surgery.
Dislocation
After an injury or trauma, the ball may come out of the hip socket. If the hip cannot be positioned normally again, hip surgery may be necessary.
Fracture
A hip fracture can often heal on its own with rest and care. If the joint fails to repair with conservative measures, your dog may require a surgical procedure.
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
With this disease, there is inadequate blood flow to the femur, causing the bone to soften and disintegrate.
What are the signs that my pet is experiencing hip pain?
- Reluctance to exercise or play
- Increased stiffness
- Bunny hopping
- Limping
The first step: Examination + diagnosis
If your pet is displaying the above signs and symptoms of hip pain, you will need to schedule an appointment at our Northridge office.
During that meeting, we will perform a full physical examination and order x-rays to determine the underlying cause of your pet’s hip pain. We will use the information gleaned during this assessment to guide your best friend’s treatment plan.
Your surgical options
Femoral head ostectomy (FHO)
FHO involves removing the ball of the hip and stitching the surrounding ligament together. As the area heals, scar tissue will form to prevent the bones from rubbing together – forming what is known as a false joint.
Total hip Replacement (THR)
The With THR, both the ball and socket of the hip joint are removed and replaced with a prosthesis. The goal of this procedure is to resolve pain and restore your pet’s normal hip function. Rope is a minimally invasive technique that stabilizes the knee with a special implant.
Recovery
Total hip replacement. The recovery period associated with THR lasts about ten weeks. In general, your pet will be able to walk on the operated leg within two days, but his or her activity will be restricted for two months as the bone grows in and stabilizes the implant.
Femoral head ostectomy. FHO involves a more extensive healing process. Your pet won’t be able to walk on the operated leg for at least two weeks. From there, he or she will need to complete a comprehensive physical therapy program and endure a highly restricted activity period.
FHO vs THR: Which one is right for my pet?
As long as your pet is a good candidate for the procedure, total hip replacement is generally preferred over femoral head ostectomy. With THR, there’s a higher likelihood that your pet will experience an increased quality of life and a resolution of his or her hip pain after surgery.
Although FHO is able to resolve pain and discomfort for most pets, optimal function never fully returns because part of the joint has been permanently removed. It’s also associated with a lengthy rehabilitation period.
Competitive pricing. Specialized procedures. Care you can trust.
At Northridge Animal Medical Center, we are committed to offering the care your animal needs at an affordable price. In addition to being one of just a handful of clinics in the area capable of performing hip surgery and hip dysplasia treatment for pet – we are often able to beat the prices offered by other surgeons.
Contact us today to learn moreMake an appointment today
Your pet’s wellbeing is our number one priority. As hip dysplasia is more common than some may be aware of, it is very important to check into this as the first signs start appearing. With arguably the best hip dysplasia treatment for dogs in Northridge, as well as cats, we can get them well and pain-free again. Contact our Northridge clinic today to schedule an appointment for cat and dog vaccinations, and take an important step in ensuring that your best friend has a long and healthy life.
- Monday 9:00am 6:00pm
- Tuesday 9:00am 6:00pm
- Wednesday 9:00am 6:00pm
- Thursday 9:00am 6:00pm
- Friday 9:00am 6:00pm
- Saturday 9:00am 2:00pm
- Sunday Closed