At Animal Hospital of North Asheville, we offer orthopedic surgical options for Asheville's cats and dogs.
Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic surgery is a number of both invasive and non-invasive surgeries designed to address issues with the skeletal system and joints, along with associated soft tissues including ligaments, tendons, cartilage and muscles.
With our team's training and resources, we'll guide you through the entire process for dealing with your pet's orthopedic injury — starting at the initial screening and diagnostic stages and continuing through to surgery and post-operative care.
Common Orthopedic Medical Conditions
A number of orthopedic medical conditions can affect your cat or dog. Here are some of the most common:
Hip Dysplasia
In large breed dogs especially, hip joints can become partially (or completely) dislocated when the hip socket doesn't quite cover the ball portion of the upper thighbone.
The most effective treatment is usually a total hip replacement. This procedure involves the original hip joint being replaced with metal and plastic implants.
Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA)
Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA) is a surgical procedure used to treat cranial cruciate ligament rupture in the stifle (knee) joints of dogs. The goal of TTA surgery is to make the knee stable for the dog when bearing weight, without directly repairing the ligament.
Limb Amputations
While limb amputation is a major surgery, it can sometimes be the best treatment option for removing a source of pain and suffering. Limb amputation can help improve your pet's quality of life, and will only take place if your vet thinks the procedure can achieve this.
Cruciate Ligament Tears
Cruciate ligaments are pairs of ligaments that are arranged like a letter X that connect your dog's thigh bone and shin bone. Like humans, these ligaments can tear and cause significant pain and limping for your pet.
There are a number of surgeries that should be performed to repair torn ligaments, return stability to the joint and prevent arthritis. The type of procedure will depend on the size of your dog.
Luxating Patellas
More commonly referred to as a "trick knee," a luxating patella occurs when the patella, or knee cap, moves out of its natural position at the end of the femur.
Patella issues are common in many dog breeds, both large and small, and can cause significant lameness in your pet.
Surgery for this issue is recommended to attempt to keep the patella in its appropriate place at all times.