Dog Hip Replacement: Help For Our Canine Friends

Hip replacement surgery is recommended when a dog is suffering from painful hip joints which affect mobility and well being. While hip dysplasia is a common cause other conditions can also warrant this kind of surgery. Common indicators to a hip problem are lameness, stiffness and a reluctance to exercise.

Hip replacement surgery cannot be performed on all dogs. Doctors will consider a number of factors before they recommend hip replacement for the dog. In order for the surgery to be effective, the dog must be in good health and free from any other bone problems and diseases. The dog must also be fully mature so that the artificial hip fits properly. As most dogs reach maturity by the time they are 9 to 12 months old, the minimum age is usually about 9 months. This age may be higher for the bigger breeds, who take longer to reach maturity.

Before actual surgery the dog is examined thoroughly. Previous history is recorded and a set of pathological tests performed to check for infections and diseases. Tests include detailed X-rays of the hips. For the surgery itself the dog is required to be hospitalized for about 3 to 5 days.

During the surgery, the head of the femur and the socket of the hip joint are replaced with artificial implants. Usually bone cement is used to fix the new prostheses in place. Uncemented hip replacements as well as a combination of the two methods are gaining popularity in recent times.

Following a successful hip replacement surgery the dog can be expected to lead a pain free and active life. The surgery helps to increase muscle mass and range of movement. Thus the dog is able to do much more than before the operation. In fact many working dogs are able to get back to full activity following surgery.

It is imperative that the owners of the dog understand the risks involved in hip replacement surgery before taking a decision. Hip dislocations, loosening of the artificial hip, nerve damage and fracture of the femur are some of the complications that can arise after the operation. However these conditions do not occur very often and can be dealt with effectively.

Post operative infections are also a fear. For this reason the recovery process is monitored carefully. A special collar prevents the dog from licking the stitches.

Once the dog is back home, activities need to be limited for the first 12 weeks. In the beginning, the dog can be taken out for very short periods on a leash. Climbing stairs needs to be monitored to ensure that the dog is not straining the new hip needlessly. Running, jumping and playing has to be totally restricted for the first 3 months.

Hip replacement surgery is more common in the larger breeds of dogs. With a success rate of 90 to 95% this procedure has changed the quality of life for many a dog. With greater mobility, increased muscle mass and a pain free existence as its outcomes the surgery indeed holds a promise for a better future.