Hip dysplasia: understanding the options (surgical management)

Abstract

The majority of vets in practice will be familiar with options for conservative management of canine hip dysplasia. However, there may be less familiarity with the various surgical options. Knowledge of the reported surgical techniques; selection criteria for these options; and their outcomes and potential complications provide the basis for an evidence-based approach to management of the individual case. In this article a brief comparison with developmental dysplasia of the hips in human infants is given by way of an introduction to surgical options, since there is some overlap with options for hip dysplasia in dogs. A description of the surgical interventions that have been reported for canine hip dysplasia is presented, and, where possible, the evidence regarding outcomes is summarised. It is hoped this article will help the general practitioner giving advice regarding surgical management of canine hip dysplasia.