Dog Care After a Cerclage Surgery

Complex fractures in dogs often require surgical intervention and repair. During canine orthopedic surgery, various internal fixation devices may be used to stabilize fractured bones. These include bone plates, pins, screws and cerclage wires. Recovery from a major orthopedic surgery is often long and difficult for dogs, but there are a number of ways to lessen a companion animal's discomfort and keep him on the road to healing post-surgery.

  1. Cerclage Surgery

    • Veterinary surgeons typically use cerclage wires when a bone has shattered in such a way that fragments may have been created. In surgery the fragments are secured around the bone by wrapping cerclage wire around them. The wires act as a stabilization device and as a matrix on which the new bone will grow after surgery. Complete recovery from cerclage surgery may take up to two months.

    Pain Management

    • Immediately after surgery, discuss the pain management options that may be appropriate for your dog for the first few weeks of recovery. Some dogs are very calm and subdued after a major surgical procedure. If your pet is not and attempts to return to his normal activity levels while in recovery, he may injure himself. Consider discussing whether a light sedative could help keep your companion safe for the first few weeks post cerclage surgery.

    Activities after Surgery

    • Keep your dog in a confined space, such as a crate or a quiet room immediately after cerclage surgery. Adequate rest is a very important part of the recovery process. Stairs should be avoided. Your vet will be able to advise you on how long your dog should refrain from walking up or down the stairs.

    Rehabilitation and Recovery

    • Switch your dog's food to a high protein diet. This will give your pet all the necessary nutrients to help speed up tissue repair and post-surgical recovery. Physical rehabilitation is a very important part of recovery and healing for dogs that have undergone major orthopedic procedures, like cerclage surgery. Specialists in dog rehabilitation do exist. Your dog can participate in an individualized rehabilitation program designed to fit his particular needs starting a few weeks post-surgery.