Hip Dysplasia & Osteoarthritis:
A normal hip is a tightly joined “ball and socket” joint. The normal hip joint enables the hind leg to move smoothly in a full range of motion and allows a dog to rise, walk, run, jump, and turn effectively. In the diseased hip, the “ball and socket” become irregular, rough, and deformed, causing pain and decreased range of motion.
Total hip replacement (THR) surgery replaces a painful and dysfunctional hip joint with an artificial prosthesis, in order to provide a pain-free, fully functional joint. This surgery is typically performed on a dog with severe hip pain due to conditions called hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis. Total hip replacement can also be considered for a dog with a painful and abnormal hip due to fracture, luxation (dislocation), or necrosis (severe degeneration) of the femoral head.
Hip dysplasia, meaning abnormal growth of the hip, is a common problem in dogs. Dysplastic hips are painful and lack smooth movements; therefore the dog’s quality of life can be severely affected. Selection of the appropriate treatment option for this condition is dependent on many factors such as: age, severity of hip dysplasia, development of osteoarthritis, degree of pain/discomfort, and owner’s expectation and financial ability.[1]
Treatment Options and Methods:
Many dogs with pain and lameness associated with hip dysplasia can be effectively managed with conservative methods. Conservative methods include: weight management, moderation of excessive exercise/activity, providing warm comfortable bedding, and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical rehabilitation, and oral supplements as needed.
If the dog has severe hip pain and the quality of life is decreased, and if conservative methods are not effective, surgical treatment should be considered.
Notes:
[1] – Hayashi, Kei, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS – Total Hip Replacement In Dogs (ACVS)
http://www.acvs.org/AnimalOwners/HealthConditions/SmallAnimalTopics/TotalHipReplacement(THR)inDogs/
