Orthopedics

Orthopedics is a medical specialty which deals with problems of the musculoskeletal system. This includes the bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. We oftentimes deal with orthopedic problems caused which are hereditary, occur during growth of an animal, or are caused by acute trauma such as an animal getting hit by a car. In animals, owners can usually recognize these issues through visible limping and/or lameness. This can be divided into two categories. Acute limping and lameness which is usually caused by trauma, and chronic limping and lameness which has been occurring for several days or weeks.

$X-ray image of a femur fracture in a cat$

Post operative image of a cat femur reconstruction. The bone was reconstructed with rods and an external fixture was applied for several weeks until the bone healed.

TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement) surgery in a large dog. This a surgical procedure used to treat cranial (or anterior) cruciate ligament rupture in the knee joints of dogs.

X-ray of a large dog after bilateral TTA surgery using cage implants. The surgeries were performed several weeks apart.

$Very sad case. Owners brought in a cat which was attacked by their other pet - a rottweiler. The damage is extreme with a complete fracture of the cats spine. This case was unfortunately fatal.$

Orthopedic Diagnostics

X-ray evaluation of orthopedic ailments
Orthopedic defects (DKK, DLK, OCD, growth deformities, etc)
Orthopedic trauma surgery (luxation, fractures, etc.)
Laboratory diagnostics
Orthopedic Consultations
X-ray evaluations for kennel clubs

Osteosynthesis of a femur in a rabbit. A very rare case!

Orthopedic Surgery

Cranial (or anterior) cruciate ligament rupture - TTA surgery
Patellar luxation - lateral and medial
OCD (cartilage damage)- shoulder, knee, tarsus
Joint trauma - luxation, and fractures
Broken bones - internal/external stabilization
Muscle, ligament, and tendon repair
Arthrodesis - artificial induction of joint ossification between two bones
Amputation of limbs

$Bilateral carpal (wrist) fracture in a cat. This was caused by a fall from the 8th story. However, after a successful surgery the cat is now walking!$

$Humerus fracture in an 8 week old puppy. The fracture occurred after a fall from the sofa.$

Unique Orthopedic Cases

Surgery of a damaged lateral knee ligament: 10 week old German Shepherd puppy was presented with lameness. The side ligaments stabilize the knee from any side to side movement. The deformity is determined by significant instability of the joint and great lateral movements of the joint which is easily visible on x-rays. Surgery is performed by reconstructing the ligament with a special non-absorbable suture.