Hip dysplasia is a painful and degenerative condition caused by abnormal joint structure and laxity of the connective tissues, ligaments and muscles supporting the hip, according to the Pet Education website. Dogs with severe hip dysplasia often benefit from hip replacement surgery.
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Breeds Prone to Hip Dysplasia
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Large and giant breeds are particularly prone to the genetic defects that primarily cause hip dysplasia, says the website Vet Info, and they are more likely to need hip replacement surgery.
Hip Replacement Surgery
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Hip replacement surgery involves replacing both the hip socket and the ball of the hip joint. This procedure can provide eventual pain relief and increase mobility in dogs with the condition.
Hip Replacement Guidelines
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Total hip replacement surgery is only advised for dogs that have significant problems and are over 50 lbs. This is primarily because prosthetic hips are not available for smaller dogs, according to Vet Info.
Surgery for Smaller Breeds
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Medium-sized breeds and, rarely, small breeds can develop hip dysplasia. In these cases, femoral head ostectomy surgery (FHO) is recommended instead of total hip replacement. In FHO, the ball of the hip joint is removed and the bone smoothed, says Vet Info.
Rehabilitation After Surgery
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How much mobility a dog regains after surgery varies according to several factors. One of the most important of these is degree of muscle wasting, as hip dysplasia causes pain leading to lack of limb use.
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