User:Katiecoggins/Canine Hip Replacement

Canine Hip Replacement

Overview
Total hip replacement is a surgery to replace a painful and dysfunctional hip joint with artificial (metal and plastic) prostheses, in order to provide a pain-free, fully functional joint for an active lifestyle. 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 painful and abnormal hip due to fracture, luxation (dislocation), and necrosis (severe degeneration).

What to Expect from Surgery
The goal of surgery is to return your pet to pain-free, mechanically sound, normal hip function. Generally, dogs are found to be more comfortable and have an improved quality of life. Many owners report that their pet can do things they have not done since they were a puppy. Increase in muscle mass, improved hip motion, and increased activity levels have been observed in most patients. Working dogs have returned to full activity. Some mean dogs have even developed a pleasant personality when the pain was eliminated from their hip(s).