Total Hip Replacement (Total Hip Arthroplasty)

Introduced in 1976, the canine total hip replacement has become the optimal treatment available to provide normal, comfortable hip joint function once advanced hip arthritis is present.  

With this technique, the femoral head and neck (ball portion of the hip joint) are replaced with a cobalt chrome modular component and the acetabulum (hip socket) is replaced with a high molecular weight polyethylene prosthesis.  The two components mate together to provide pain free hip function.  

Currently, there are two methods of fixation, including cemented and non-cementer components. Both are fully acceptable and methods are dependent on surgeon training and personal preference.

The rehabilitation period is approximately 12 weeks in most cases.  

Follow up studies of total hip replacements have demonstrated overall success rates of 91-96%.  Hip replacements can be performed on both hip joints in staged fashion although many dogs (65-85%) perform clinically well with only one hip replaced.  Primary complications described include infection (1%), loosening of the implants (2-3%), and postoperative dislocation (2-3%).