Dog Orthopedic Surgery at Aspen Veterinary Clinic
At Aspen Veterinary Clinic, we know how important your dog’s mobility is to their overall health and happiness. That’s why we’re proud to be one of the only clinics in the Flagstaff area with the experience and advanced training to offer a full range of dog orthopedic surgery services. Led by Dr. Saul, Dr. Warlick and Dr. Gabelt, our skilled team provides specialized care for conditions such as dog cruciate injuries, patellar luxation, and complex fractures. Whether your dog needs TPLO surgery, cruciate repair, or another orthopedic procedure, we’re here to help your pet recover and thrive.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO)
What is a TPLO Surgery?
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery for dogs is a procedure designed to stabilize the knee joint in dogs suffering from cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries. CCL injuries are one of the most common orthopedic problems and causes of lameness in dogs. A CCL tear or injury can cause significant pain and limit your dog’s ability to move comfortably.
TPLO Surgery for Dogs Procedure
During a TPLO surgery, a precise cut is made in the tibia (shin bone), and the bone segment is rotated to change the angle of the tibial plateau. This adjustment stabilizes the knee joint, allowing your dog to regain mobility and reduce pain. The bone is then secured with a specialized plate and screws, ensuring proper healing and long-term stability.
Learn More About Cranial Cruciate Ligaments in Dogs
Medial Patellar Luxation (MPL) Repairs
What is MPL?
Medial Patellar Luxation (MPL) occurs when the patella (kneecap) dislocates or moves out of its normal groove, leading to intermittent or persistent lameness and discomfort. Patellar luxation in dogs is common in smaller breeds, but it can affect dogs of any size.
How is MPL treated?
MPL repair involves surgical realignment of the patella to its proper position within the femoral groove. At Aspen Veterinary Clinic, we use advanced techniques to deepen the groove, realign the quadriceps muscle, and stabilize the luxating patella with soft tissue adjustments. This approach provides a higher success rate and improved quality of life for your dog.
Learn More About Luxating Patellas in Dogs
Fracture Repairs
Dogs, like people, can suffer fractures and broken bones from accidents, falls, or unexpected trauma. These injuries can range from simple breaks to complex fractures that need advanced surgical care. At Aspen Veterinary Clinic, our team is experienced and equipped for orthopedic surgery for dogs.
With in-house digital X-rays, we can quickly and accurately diagnose your dog’s injury, so we can create the right treatment plan for your pet. From initial diagnosis to recovery, we’re here to make sure your dog gets the expert orthopedic care they need to heal and get back to life.
Types of Bone Fractures in Dogs
- Simple Fracture: A simple fracture involves a single break in the bone, resulting in two separate pieces. The skin remains intact, and the bone does not pierce through.
- Example: A clean break in the radius (forearm bone).
- Compound (Open) Fracture: A compound fracture occurs when the broken bone pierces through the skin, creating an open wound. This type of fracture is more prone to infection and requires immediate medical attention.
- Example: A broken tibia (shin bone) that punctures the skin.
- Comminuted Fracture: A comminuted fracture involves the bone breaking into multiple pieces. This type of fracture is often the result of high-impact trauma and can be challenging to repair.
- Example: A shattered femur (thigh bone) from a car accident.
- Greenstick Fracture: A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture where the bone bends and cracks but does not completely break. This type of fracture is more common in young, growing dogs with more flexible bones.
- Example: A partially broken ulna (one of the forearm bones) in a puppy.
- Transverse Fracture: A transverse fracture features a horizontal break across the bone, forming a straight-line fracture. These fractures are often stable and easier to align and heal with surgical intervention.
- Example: A straight-line break in the fibula (smaller bone of the lower leg).
- Oblique Fracture: An oblique fracture has an angled break across the bone, creating a diagonal line. These fractures can be unstable and may require surgical intervention to prevent shifting.
- Example: An angled break in the humerus (upper arm bone).
- Spiral Fracture: A spiral fracture results from a twisting force, causing a helical break in the bone. These fractures can be particularly complex to treat due to the rotational nature of the break.
- Example: A twisted break in the tibia (shin bone) from a sudden turn or twist.
- Avulsion Fracture: An avulsion fracture occurs when a fragment of bone is pulled off by a tendon or ligament. This type of fracture is often seen in active dogs that experience sudden, forceful movements.
- Example: A small bone fragment detached from the pelvis due to a strong pull from a ligament.
- Impacted Fracture: An impacted fracture happens when the broken bone ends are driven into each other, often due to compression or forceful impact.
- Example: The ends of a broken femur (thigh bone) compressing into each other.
Why Choose Aspen Veterinary Clinic?
Advanced Training and Experience
Dr. Saul, Dr. Warlick and Dr. Gabelt all have advanced training in veterinary orthopedics and have performed hundreds of successful orthopedic surgeries. Our combined expertise guarantees that your dog receives the highest standard of care, from diagnosis to recovery.
Comprehensive Care
At Aspen Veterinary Clinic, we believe in providing comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of your dog's health. Our team is dedicated to supporting you and your pet through every step of the treatment process, allowing a smooth and successful recovery.
State-of-the-Art Facility
Our clinic is equipped with cutting-edge technology and a modern surgical suite to provide the best possible outcomes for your dog. We maintain a sterile and safe environment, adhering to the highest standards of veterinary care.
When Your Dog Needs Orthopedic Care, Aspen Veterinary Clinic is There
If your dog is showing signs of lameness, joint pain, or difficulty getting around, contact Aspen Veterinary Clinic today to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to help your dog get back to doing what they love.
If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (928) 526-2423, or you can email us at [email protected].