Orthopedics/ Total Hip Replacement

Nancy O. Brown, VMD, DACVS, DACVIM-Oncology         Stephanie Dobbins, DVM

Total Hip Replacement >
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture >
Hip Dysplasia >

Pennsylvania Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Associates perform a wide array of orthopedic surgeries. Both acute and chronic bone disease can be treated to improve your pet’s quality of life. Common conditions treated are: fractures, luxated or dislocated joints, ruptured or sprained ligaments, cranial cruciate ruptures, and osteoarthritis. Developmental and congenital diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, joint cartilage disturbances (such as osteochondritis dissecans), ununited anconeal process, panosteitis, hypertrophic osteodystrophy, angular limb deformities along with many other less common conditions are treated. Neoplasia associated with the skeletal system is managed as indicated. 

The hospital offers diagnostic orthopedic examinations and radiographs. Arthrocentesis can be performed to evaluate joint fluid as indicated.  Bone masses can be biopsied. OFA hip and elbow radiographs are performed. Dr. Brown is certified in Penn Hip radiographs. There is an on premise CT and accessibility to MRI with “in house” transportation available.

Bone plating, external skeletal fixators, joint arthrodesis, femoral head and neck excisions, total hip replacements, tibial tuberosity advancements, and tibial plateau leveling osteotomies are among the commonly performed surgeries. Also digit, limb, and tail amputations are performed when necessary.

Regenerative stem cell therapy and medical management programs for chronic orthopedic diseases such as degenerative or immune mediated joint disease are part of our orthopedic services. Complementary services offered by the hospital include a rehabilitation service to help the patients recover from surgery as completely and rapidly as possible.  Rehabilitation programs help also with chronic arthritis, muscle disease, or trauma. Laser therapy, acupuncture, and massage therapy are used, along with exercise programs designed. A weight management service is also available at Pennsylvania Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Associates at Hickory Veterinary Hospital.