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Hip Dysplasia & Triple Pelvic Osteotomy

Hip dysplasia is a common veterinary problem especially in large breed dogs.

  • The primary problem is malformation of the ball and/or socket and joint instability. See photo to your left.
  • Clinical signs are variable. Bunny hopping, and lack of interest in playing, running or jumping are common.

The diagnosis of hip dysplasia is based on X-rays and palpation of the hip joint.








Hip dysplasia in one year old dog











Triple Pelvic Osteotomy
Triple Pelvic Osteotomy


Hip Dysplasia & Triple Pelvic Osteotomy

Because of advancements in total hip replacements Triple Pelvic Osteotomies are infrequently performed by our doctors.

Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO): TPO involves making 3 cuts in the pelvis (see image above, left) and tilting or rotating the socket to bring the ball and socket into a more normal position. A specialized bone plate is applied to hold the bone in position during healing.

  • All animals receive a morphine epidural for pain relief.
  • The patient can be discharged from the hospital the day of surgery, if the client desires.
The average cost is $2,230-$2,680 which includes pre-surgical x-rays when needed, anesthesia and monitoring, epidural, surgery, post-operative x-rays and go home medications (4 week X-rays are not included).








FAQs About TPO

Q: Does my pet have to spend the night in the hospital?
A: No. Virtually all dogs undergoing TPO at Colorado Canine Orthopedics can be discharged the day of surgery.

Q: Will this procedure have a negative affect on the opposite leg?
A: No. The TPO provides a very positive outcome with no negative affect on the opposite leg.

Q: Will the procedure need to be performed on both hips?
A: Most likely. In most dogs, hip dysplasia is a bilateral problem (both sides) and each hip requires surgery.

Q: Are both hips usually operated on at the same time?
A: No. In my experience, animals do much better and are more comfortable during the healing phase if they can walk with one good side. The second side is usually operated on 4 weeks later.
 

Q: Will my dog experience pain in the postoperative period?
A: Minimal. All dogs undergoing TPO at Colorado Canine Orthopedics are given a morphine epidural. Most clients feel their pets' discomfort level is quite tolerable.

Q: How long does it take for healing?
A: The osteotomies take 1-2 months to heal. During this time the pet can have a reasonable amount of leash activity.

Q: How many TPOs have the surgeons at Colorado Canine Orthopedics performed?
A: The doctors at Colorado Canine Orthopedics have performed hundreds of TPOs.


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