Orthopedic problems do not only affect humans. Our pets are equally as prone to musculoskeletal complications, specifically if they are physically active. Orthopedic conditions have an effect on your pet’s bones, joints, and muscle mass. They can develop due to an accident, injury, or a hereditary predisposition to the illness. While medicine can be utilized to deal with lots of orthopedic ailments, there are occasions when surgery is the only option for your pet’s pain and discomfort.
When should you consider having your pet go through orthopedic surgery? Your veterinarian is your safest pick for diagnosis and treatment since they will identify when non-surgical options have been exhausted and when it is time to think about the orthopedic surgical procedure.
Orthopedic Problems in Pets That Require Surgery
One of the most typical procedures administered by vets is orthopedic surgery on pets like canines and cats. Orthopedic surgery is used to address diseases of the joints, such as hip dysplasia, and to repair damage to the body, including torn ligaments.
Of course, you may not know if your pet requires orthopedic surgery, just like many other pet owners. The Waxhaw vet can provide all the information you need to understand this treatment area. Only they can establish if operating on your pet is the most effective option.
Hip Dysplasia
This genetic condition affects your pet’s hips and is most common in large-breed dogs. Treatment typically consists of taking anti-inflammatory meds on a daily basis, but if your pet develops arthritis in the joint, titanium replacements may be required. Surgical hip replacement is an expensive and complex procedure, but it can improve your pet’s quality of life. Signs of hip dysplasia in your pet:
- Jumping, running, or climbing stairs is difficult
- A swaying walk
- The space between your pet’s legs may appear wider than usual
- Your pet’s legs may look shorter than the others
- Reduced mobility and range of movement
- Lameness in the tail
If anti-inflammatory medicines and other therapies no longer provide comfort, your pet might be referred for orthopedic surgical treatment to replace the joint.
Patellar Luxation
Another term for the patella is the knee cap. When a pet’s patella isn’t working correctly, it can dislodge from its normal holding groove. This is usually due to the groove being too shallow. The following are symptoms of a dislocated knee joint in your pet:
- Evident pain
- At the knee, licking or biting
- Limping
- Unwillingness to walk
- Unable to bear weight on the leg
On the other hand, investing in veterinary wellness plans is a perfect choice if you want to protect your pet’s physical condition, especially their bones.
Cruciate Ligament Tears
Tears in the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, are common injuries affecting the knee’s stability. An ACL injury can not be cured by resting the knee or taking medication. Surgical treatment is required to repair a ruptured cruciate tendon in animals, just as in humans, to prevent the development of severe and unbearable arthritis. Numerous methods exist for cruciate ligament surgery; your orthopedic vet in Waxhaw can advise you on the one that has the best possibility of success with your pet.
Conclusion
Injuries and abnormalities of the musculoskeletal system are usually treated with orthopedic surgery, which aims to alleviate discomfort and address its root cause. Often, pet owners don’t have to worry about any more damage after the treatment. An orthopedic surgical procedure can prevent further injury and deterioration, even in the most extreme cases. At the same time, it also helps in recuperating mobility and function, allowing your beloved pet to resume normal activities.
