Orthopedic Surgery from University Parkway Animal Hospital
Any type of surgery can be scary for both yourself and your pet. Many orthopedic surgeries are performed to help improve your pet's overall quality of life and increase mobility. Luckily, several orthopedic surgeries are very routine and performed quickly. Below, let's take a look at some different types of orthopedic conditions and surgeries.
Common Orthopedic Concerns
Orthopedics usually refers to medical conditions concerning the musculoskeletal system. This can be anything from a sudden and acute injury, to a genetic or progressive disease. In orthopedic cases many cats or dogs exhibit difficulty moving. There are several common orthopedic concerns. For genetic orthopedic disorders, vets commonly will treat diseases such as hip dysplasia or luxating patellas. Progressive diseases can include arthritis that may impact the joints. For acute injuries, one of the most common orthopedic concerns a vet will treat is a torn or damaged ACL or MCL.
Early Screening
With regular wellness exams your vet will be able to screen for many orthopedic issues. Your vet will move your pet's joint into different positions. While moving the joint, your veterinarian will check to make sure the joint moves smoothly without any clicking, popping, or sliding. Hip dysplasia and luxating patellas usually appear in cats and dogs at an early age. As your pet ages, your veterinarian will be able to assess if your pet has arthritis and determine the severity of the disease. With any screening for an orthopedic disorder your vet will be able to recommend the appropriate course of action and subsequent physical therapy following the surgery.
Common Surgeries
While surgery can be scary for your pet many orthopedic surgeries are quite common. Typically, when your pet's quality of life begins to suffer as a result of an orthopedic issue it may be time for surgery. Veterinarians regularly perform surgery to fix torn ligaments, such as the ACL or MCL. For genetic diseases, such as a luxating patella, a veterinarian can perform orthopedic surgery to help stabilize the joint. A veterinarian can also perform surgery to fix bone spurs or growths that may impinge a joint. Bone biopsies are required to test for different diseases and are performed by an orthopedic surgeon. For emergency surgeries it is quite common to perform surgery to repair a broken bone or to amputate a limb.
If your pet has reduced mobility that is a result of an orthopedic issue it may be time for a veterinary opinion. University Parkway Animal Hospital has a team of veterinarian experts that can help. We are conveniently located at 84 University Parkway, Jackson, TN, 38305. To schedule an appointment call us today at (731) 661-0711. We would love to see your pet and help him or her get on the road to a healthier and happier life.