Hip dysplasia is an abnormal development and subsequent arthritis of the hip joint that results in lameness. Although hip dysplasia primarily affects larger breed dogs, toy breeds and even cats can have hip arthritis.

Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia may include

• Exercise intolerance

• Stiffness in the morning

• Wanting to sit down during walks or while eating

• Bunny hopping on rising after a rest and while trying to run

• Lameness and atrophy of the hind limb muscles.

Arthritis is the long term consequence of undetected or untreated hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is diagnosed by a combination of history, clinical signs, physical findings and radiographs.

Several surgical treatment options are available for treatment of hip dysplasia. There is some evidence that pelvic symphisiodesis, which closes the growth plate in the lower pelvis, prevents hip dysplasia if performed by 16 weeks of age. Young dogs (usually 6-12 months of age) that do not have advanced arthritic changes may be candidates for a reconstructive procedure to save the hip called triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO). This operation involves cutting the pelvic bone in three locations and reorienting the pelvic segments so that the hip joint becomes stable.

A total hip replacement is a treatment option if the components of the hip joint are worn or deformed or out of socket either from trauma or arthritis. This total hip replacement surgery will relieve pain, improve hip function and allow your dog to return to an active lifestyle. The arthritic joint is replaced with a custom fitted implant to eliminate pain resulting from bone rubbing on bone in the arthritic joint.. It is a similar implant used in people.

Both cemented and cementless systems are available. Your dog will receive whichever is best depending on breed and bone conformation. A cementless hip will last longer and is considered best because the bone grows into the metal implant providing stability. Many dogs with dysplasia of both hips only need one replaced, and only one hip can be done at a time in those that need both replaced. The most painful hip should be replaced first with the second surgery 6 to 10 weeks later.