Some of our veterinarians are experienced in performing many types of orthopaedic (bone) surgeries in our clinic. However, because we want to ensure that our patients receive the best possible outcome, we also refer to board-certified orthopaedic surgeons to perform cruciate ligament repairs (TTA or TPLOs), back surgery and other very complex surgeries. Your attending veterinarian will advise you of your options or recommendations depending on the nature of your pet’s condition.

The most common orthopaedic problem we treat surgically in-clinic are unfortunately leg fractures, usually as a result from a mishap with an automobile. They can be treated in a variety of ways depending on the location and type of fracture. While we can apply a cast to treat certain fractures, many will require surgical intervention:

• “Pinning” stabilizes the fracture by inserting a long stainless steel rod into the middle of the bone across the fractured area.
• “Plating” involves attaching a flat stainless steel plate to the bone using screws on either side of the fracture.
• “External fixation” stabilizes fractures using a series of pins on the outside of the leg that pass through the skin and into the bone on either side of the fracture.

For cases of severely complicated fractures where owners are unable to refer, or for our pets sadly affected by cancers of the limb, we also offer amputation as an orthopaedic surgery. Amputations may also be pursued of specific digits or the tail in an effort to remove certain cancerous masses.

Please contact us if you have any questions about these procedures. Please note that for pets transferring back to us from the emergency clinic or another veterinary practice for orthaepedic care, we will need copies of any radiographs (x-rays) to best discuss your pet’s case.