Orthopedic surgery refers to bone surgery. There are many different situations where bone surgery may be necessary including broken bones or leg fractures, hip dysplasia, patellar or knee subluxations, anterior cruciate ruptures, disc disease, etc. For orthopedic procedures we refer our patients out to a Board Certified veterinary surgeon in Red Deer or even to C.A.R.E. in Calgary to perform back surgery or other very complex procedures.
Broken legs or limb fractures are the most common orthopedic problem presented at our clinic and usually result from a mishap with an automobile or a bigger animal. They can be treated in a variety of ways depending on the location and type of fracture.
For many dislocation or greenstick fractures a simple splint will provide enough support to allow for proper healing. A cast can be applied to the leg to treat certain fractures; however, many fractures will require surgical intervention.
“Pinning” is a surgical technique whereby a long stainless steal rod is inserted into the middle of the bone. The rod traverses the fractured area and usually cerclage wires are used to create stability and prevent rotation. Often times the pin will be removed once the bones are healed properly.
“Plating” is a surgical technique whereby a flat stainless steal ‘plate’ is attached to the bone using screws on either side of the fracture.
“External fixation” is a technique used to stabilize fractures with a series of pins on the outside of the leg that pass through the skin and into the b
one on either side of the fracture.
The method of repair will depend on the location and type of fracture present.
