Hip replacement surgery (THR)

Total Hip Replacement (THR) surgery for dogs and cats is a complex but highly effective surgical procedure used to restore your pet’s movement and reduce pain caused by hip problems. This procedure is particularly recommended if other treatments, such as medication or physiotherapy, do not help.

When is hip replacement surgery recommended?

Hip replacement surgery is usually performed when a dog suffers from:

• Hip dysplasia (a genetically determined deformity of the joint);
• In cases of severe to moderate arthritis;
• Traumatic injuries that make it impossible to restore the functionality of the joint (fractured femoral head, degeneration);
• Repeated hip dislocations;
• Degenerative joint diseases that are difficult to manage with other treatment methods.

Surgical procedure

1. Preparation:

   • Examination and blood tests to assess the animal’s general health.
   • Appropriately positioned X-rays and measurements are taken.
   • The correct size and type of prosthesis is selected.

2. Surgery:

   • Removal of the affected hip joint.
   • A prosthesis is inserted to replace the damaged joint.

3. Post-operative period:

   • The pet is given painkillers and antibiotics.
   • Strict restriction of movement for 6 weeks to 3 months is recommended to allow the bone to integrate into the implants, and a leash regime is applied.
   • The animal should not be allowed to jump or run during this period and the exercise should be increased gradually.

Benefits

• Effective pain relief.
• Improves the dog’s mobility and quality of life.
• Allows restoration of normal joint function.

We are delighted to be the first to introduce this world-class service in Lithuania.

You can read more about the hip replacement surgery and one of the first patients, our veterinarian Vaiva’s pet Sharka, here.