Pubic Symphodesis

NEWEST PREVENTATIVE TREATMENT FOR HIP DYSPLASIA

Thanks to the availability of the PennHIP radiograph, early diagnosis of hip laxity can be made in those breeds prone to hip dysplasia. Armed with this information, we can now provide the latest procedure for combating hip dysplasia. This procedure is called Pubic Symphodesis.

PennHIP radiographs should be performed on puppies of those breeds known to have a high incidence of hip dysplasia (Labradors, Rottwielers, German Sheppard, and all Giant breed dogs). If the puppy is determined to have "loose" hips then the pubic symphodesis should be considered.

Pubic Symphodesis can be performed in puppies 15 - 20 weeks of age. The procedure induces the pubic growth plate to fuse early which helps the rest of the hip to develop in such a way that strong tight hip joints are produced. Success of the procedure depends on the puppy's pelvis growing after surgery and having increased coverage of the femoral head, thus producing tighter hips. Occasionally, Triple Pelvic Osteotomy is needed at a later date if adequate coverage is not attained.

The benefits of this procedure are:
- It can be done at a very early age
- It is minimally invasive
- It does not require any implants
- Recovery time is very quick

Usually the puppies are back to full function in a couple of weeks. Follow up radiographs should be performed to monitor the growth of the pelvis and track the coverage of the femoral head.

Due to the inheritable nature of hip dysplasia, the animal should be neutered or spayed at the time of Pubic Symphodesis. For more information on Hip Dysplasia: click here.