Orthopedic Surgery in Mahopac

Common Orthopedic Conditions

There is a wide range of orthopedic conditions that affect cats and dogs. The following are among the most common:

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is the medical term for a hip socket that doesn't fully cover the ball portion of the upper thighbone, allowing the hip joint to become partially or completely dislocated. It is most common in German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers and other large breed dogs.

A complete hip replacement is the most effective surgical treatment for hip dysplasia. The surgeon replaces the entire joint with metal and plastic implants, returning hip function to a normal range of motion.

Cruciate Ligament Tears

Torn cruciate ligaments in dogs, just like in people, need to be surgically repaired to prevent arthritis. There are many different types of surgical procedures that can be used to repair this injury, and the type used typically depends on the size of the dog.

CCL surgery for dogs may include a number of different techniques that aim to provide stability to the joint, hopefully with long-lasting effects.

Luxating Patellas

The patella (knee cap) lies in a cartilaginous groove at the end of the femur at the stifle. A luxating patella occurs when the kneecap moves out of its natural position. Knee cap problems are common in many dog breeds, both large and small and need to be addressed so your pet can live a full healthy life.

Surgery is recommended for animals that have significant lameness as a result of luxating patellas, with the goal of keeping the patella in its appropriate location at all times.

Disc Disease

Just like humans, dogs can develop disc problems in their neck and backs. Breeds that commonly suffer from neck disc problems are Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Dachshunds and Lhasa Apsos. Large breed dogs are more likely to have chronic lower back issues. 

Dogs with advanced disc disease should have surgery as soon as possible. The sooner that surgery is done, the better the prognosis.

Orthopedic Surgery FAQs

• What happens during the surgical consultation?

  During the surgical consultation, we will perform a physical exam and review your pet’s medical history. Blood work, and any other diagnostic tests that are needed to determine the cause of your pet's condition will also be undertaken at this time.

  Diagnostics may include x-rays, a CT scan, an ultrasound, or biopsies. Once our vets have the results back, a plan for surgery is developed and discussed with you.

• Will the surgery and consultation happen on the same day?

  No. The consultation appointment is required for testing and examination, to determine the nature of your pet's health problem. Once any diagnostic test results have come back from our lab, a surgery appointment can be scheduled.

• How long will the surgery take?

  Orthopedic surgeries typically last between two to four hours, depending on the type of surgery being performed and on your pet’s specific condition.

• Does my pet have to stay at the hospital overnight after surgery?

  Pets typically do better recovering at home with their families when it is safe to do so. Following surgery, your pet will be assessed to determine whether they are ready to go home or need additional medical support.

  If your pet requires continued monitoring or care overnight, they may be transferred to an overnight veterinary facility for further support.