Repairs for Hip Subluxation in Dogs

Surgery can relieve the pain and stiffness of hip subluxation

Canine hip dysplasia and trauma are two common causes of hip subluxation in dogs. If weight control, exercise and medications are of no help, veterinarians can repair the affected joint (or joints) through surgical means.

Methods

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) lists triple pelvic osteotomy, total hip replacement and femoral head and neck excision among the options to repair hip subluxation. Besides cost, the choice depends on the dog's age, weight and the severity of the case.

Cost

Canine hip surgery can be a financial drain. Pet insurance company PetCare reported in 2009 that--based on prior claims--the typical cost of hip dysplasia surgery runs more than $2,300. Femoral head and neck excision is a less-expensive alternative to total hip replacement, but leaves the dog with an abnormal gait.

Recovery

According to the OFA, recovery can take four to six weeks.

Considerations

A dog that is obese, inactive or has severe muscle atrophy is a poor candidate for hip surgery. In cases of hip dysplasia, the American Animal Hospital Association recommends that owners spay or neuter the animal so the disorder isn't passed to a new generation.

Results

The OFA reports that hip surgeries have good success rates.

References

• American Animal Hospital Association
• Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
• PetCare

Resources

• Find a veterinary surgeon near you.