All About Arthroscopy for Pets
Like us, our pets suffer from a variety of orthopedic issues. As in human medicine, veterinary medicine offers techniques and treatment protocols that enhance the lives of fur friends with mobility problems and injuries. This is why arthroscopy for pets is such an exciting tool in treatment.
Oakland Veterinary Referral Services wants to give you an overview and explore the many benefits of arthroscopy as it relates to your best friend.
An Overview of Arthroscopy for Pets
Arthroscopy is a procedure used to treat joint diseases. A specialized camera that resembles a telescope helps us get a closer look at the joints. Much like an endoscope, this device captures images of the joint interior without the need for a major exploratory surgery.
During an arthroscopic procedure, we anesthetize our patient and make a small incision about the size of a pea or button in the joint. This allows us to insert the arthroscope. Once in place, we magnify the interior to look at the tendons, ligaments, and surrounding structures of the joint. With this enhanced view, a veterinarian can better assess the condition of the joint and look for abnormalities.
During treatment, we use the same tiny incision to insert our surgical instruments and correct the problem.
Advantages of Arthroscopy for Pets
Most pet owners are concerned about traditional surgical procedures due to their invasive or complex nature. This is why arthroscopy (and endoscopy) is one of the best advancements in veterinary surgical procedures because it is minimally invasive. This means that we don’t need to open up the whole joint and the incisions are quite small. The procedure itself allows for faster recovery and healing of the scars. Take a closer look inside of arthroscopy for common cruciate ligament tears or ruptures.
What Conditions Can Arthroscopy for Pets Treat
Veterinary arthroscopy focuses primarily on the joints of your pet’s knee, shoulder, and elbow. We can diagnose and treat the following conditions using this amazing instrument.
- Cruciate ligament injuries
- Elbow FCP
- Osteochondrosis dissecans
Arthroscopy for Pets: Recovery and Aftercare
Since arthroscopy has fewer complications, you can expect a faster recovery with less pain. Most pets leave the hospital within 24-hours post-procedure and experience only mild discomfort which is controlled through the use of pain medication. Many pets are back to their old selves a few days after the procedure. We discourage vigorous exercise, such as running and jumping, during healing, while short walks in the backyard are fine.
With a few days of restricted movement and rest, your pet should be on their way to a full recovery and better mobility.
OVRS invites you to reach out to us about our arthroscopic procedures and minimally invasive surgeries. Please call us for additional information or to schedule an appointment with our team of compassionate experts.
