We occasionally refer clients to board-certified orthopedic surgeons to perform back surgery and other specialized surgeries not available at Winthrop Veterinary Hospital.
Leg fractures are common orthopedic problems presented at our clinic and usually result from a mishap with an automobile. They can be treated in a variety of ways depending on the location and type of fracture. Occasionally, we can apply a cast to treat certain fractures; however, many fractures will require surgical intervention:
- “Pinning” stabilizes the fracture by inserting a long stainless steel rod into the middle of the bone across the fractured area.
- “Plating” involves attaching a flat stainless or titanium plate to the bone using screws on either side of the fracture.
- “External fixation” stabilizes fractures using a series of pins on the outside of the leg that pass through the skin and into the bone on either side of the fracture.
We also perform orthopedic surgeries related to cruciate ligament ruptures in the knee joint, bone malalignment or disease in the elbow, shoulder, and hip among many other conditions. Please contact us if you have any questions about these procedures or if you think your pet might benefit from them.