Joint Replacement & Load Shift - FUSION VETERINARY ORTHOPEDICS

Joint Replacement and Load Shifting Surgery

Addressing joint problems and complications in pets.

Joint problems can arise in our furry friends just as they do in us. In the dog this is commonly due to underlying developmental genetic issues such as hip dysplasia or developmental elbow disease. However, other injuries such as tearing of the cranial cruciate ligament (similar to our ACL), patella (kneecap luxation) or joint fractures can all lead to joint pain.

Joint problems in dogs and cats can arise from developmental genetic issues like hip dysplasia or developmental elbow disease, or from injuries such as tearing of the cranial cruciate ligament (similar to the human ACL), patella luxation, or joint fractures. These issues can lead to joint pain, inflammation, loss of motion, and thickening, resulting in osteoarthritis. While osteoarthritis is incurable, it can be managed through a multi-modal approach. When medical management fails and the joint nears the end of its functional lifespan, surgical options, including joint replacements and unloading surgeries, are considered at Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics.

What Is Joint Replacement & Load Shifting Surgery?

Joint problem signs vary with the condition's severity and the affected joint. For instance, elbow issues typically cause more lameness than shoulder or hip problems. In young dogs, signs may include stiffness after rising or playing, self-limiting play, or reluctance to walk. Older dogs may show stiffness after heavy play, intermittent limping, changes in behavior or activity, and difficulty with furniture or stairs. Joint issues and osteoarthritis can affect both young and older pets. If suspected, an initial examination and radiographs by a veterinarian or Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics can confirm the diagnosis.

If a joint problem is diagnosed or worsens despite medical management, a consultation with a board-certified surgeon like Dr. David Dycus at Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics is recommended. During the consultation, a thorough orthopedic examination and potentially advanced imaging like a CT scan will determine the affected joint and discomfort level. The surgeon will discuss the procedure, pros and cons, benefits, and potential complications.

Clinical Signs and Diagnosis

Joint Replacement Options

Currently, hip joint replacements are available for dogs and cats, with hopes of extending this to the stifle (knee), elbow, and hock (ankle) joints in dogs. Hip replacements are common, treating conditions such as hip dysplasia, luxation, fractures, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and physeal dysplasia in cats. Total hip replacements can be performed on young pets as early as 6-7 months, removing the abnormal joint and replacing it with synthetic components for normal function and pain relief. Less common are stifle, elbow, and hock replacements, usually for severe osteoarthritis impacting quality of life. These replacements aim for good functional outcomes and pain-free lives.

Load-Shifting Surgery

Load-shifting surgery unloads damaged joint portions, commonly performed on dogs with osteochondrosis/osteochondritis dissecans (OC/OCD) lesions in the hock joint, and sometimes for stifle and elbow conditions. The surgery involves shifting bone above or below the joint to redistribute load to healthier joint areas. Dr. Dycus is one of the few surgeons globally performing this surgery.

Are there any Complications?

Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics aims to restore normal function with minimal risks. Complications from load-shifting surgery include implant breakdown, infection, and soft tissue injuries. Infection rates are low, managed with antibiotics during and after surgery. Implant issues and soft tissue injuries often result from overactivity. Dr. Dycus’ expertise in joint replacements minimizes complications, with frequent post-operative rechecks to monitor for issues like joint luxation, bone fractures, and infection. Any post-surgery limb use changes should prompt a recheck at Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics.

Are there any Complications?

Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics aims to restore normal function with minimal risks. Complications from load-shifting surgery include implant breakdown, infection, and soft tissue injuries. Infection rates are low, managed with antibiotics during and after surgery. Implant issues and soft tissue injuries often result from overactivity. Dr. Dycus’ expertise in joint replacements minimizes complications, with frequent post-operative rechecks to monitor for issues like joint luxation, bone fractures, and infection. Any post-surgery limb use changes should prompt a recheck at Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics.

Learn More