Outcome and complications following modified prosthetic capsule technique for treatment of craniodorsal hip luxation in dogs.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this retrospective study was to report the clinical outcome of dogs with craniodorsal hip luxation (CDHL) treated with a modified prosthetic capsule technique (mPCT).

ANIMALS AND PROCEDURE

Retrospective study of medical records from dogs with CDHL treated with mPCT between 2012 and 2018.

RESULTS

Sixty-four dogs were included. All luxations were reduced successfully. No intraoperative complications were observed. The postoperative complication rate was 28% ( = 18), with 14% ( = 9) major and 14% ( = 9) minor complications, and the majority occurring within 1 mo after surgery. Complications included reluxation (9.4%), severe lameness (3%), osteomyelitis (1.6%), and intermittent lameness or stiffness (14%). Of dogs without major complication (33/55 dogs), long-term owner follow-up assessment (> 6 mo) (median: 39 mo, range: 19 to 51 mo) revealed an excellent or good quality of life, although 5 dogs had intermittent lameness or stiffness. Radiographs of 13/33 dogs (median: 27 mo, range: 10 to 46 mo) showed no or mild osteoarthritis progression.

CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The mPCT is an effective technique for surgical treatment of CDHL in dogs. Further studies are required to objectively evaluate limb use and long-term radiographic changes.