Orthopedic Surgery & Procedures in Edmonton, AB
Is your pet limping, stiff, or having difficulty moving comfortably?
Orthopedic conditions can affect your pet’s bones, joints, ligaments, and overall mobility, making everyday activities more challenging and uncomfortable. At Ermineskin Veterinary Hospital, we provide orthopedic surgery and treatment options for dogs and cats in Edmonton, Southside Edmonton, and the surrounding communities. Using advanced diagnostics, surgical expertise, and individualised treatment plans, our goal is to reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve your pet’s quality of life.
How Orthopedic Surgery Helps Improve Mobility
Orthopedic surgery focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, and connective tissues. These conditions may develop due to injury, genetics, age-related changes, or disease and can significantly impact your pet’s comfort and ability to move normally.
Early diagnosis and treatment can often help prevent further damage, improve function, and support a more active and comfortable life for your pet.
Conditions We Commonly Treat
Our veterinary team evaluates and treats a variety of orthopedic conditions, including:
Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL/ACL) Injuries
Cranial cruciate ligament injuries are one of the most common causes of hind-limb lameness in dogs. These injuries can lead to joint instability, pain, and reduced mobility if left untreated.
Patella Luxation
A luxating patella, commonly known as a loose kneecap, can cause intermittent limping, discomfort, and abnormal movement patterns.
Hip and Joint Disease
Hip disease and other joint-related conditions can affect your pet’s mobility, comfort, and ability to participate in normal daily activities.
Severe Trauma and Limb Injuries
Fractures, traumatic injuries, and other orthopedic conditions may require surgical intervention to restore function and improve quality of life.
Orthopedic Procedures We Perform
Depending on your pet’s diagnosis and individual needs, we may recommend one of the following orthopedic procedures:
Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL/ACL) Repair
Surgical stabilisation helps restore joint function and improve mobility following ligament injury.
Patella Luxation Repair
This procedure helps stabilise the kneecap and improve normal movement and comfort.
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO)
An FHO may be recommended to relieve pain and improve mobility for pets experiencing certain hip conditions.
Amputations
In some situations, amputation may provide the best opportunity for pain relief and an improved quality of life following severe injury, disease, or chronic pain.
What to Expect Before Orthopedic Surgery
Every orthopedic case begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Our veterinary team performs a thorough physical examination and develops a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s specific condition, age, lifestyle, and overall health.
We also create an individualised anaesthesia and pain management protocol designed to maximise safety and comfort throughout the surgical process.
Surgery and Recovery
During surgery, your pet is closely monitored by our medical team from start to finish. Following the procedure, they are moved to a quiet recovery area where they are carefully observed as they wake from anaesthesia.
You will receive detailed aftercare instructions, including medication recommendations, activity restrictions, follow-up care, and recovery guidelines to support healing at home. Recovery timelines vary depending on the procedure performed and your pet’s individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
How do I know if my pet needs orthopedic surgery?
Common signs may include limping, stiffness, difficulty standing, reluctance to jump, decreased activity levels, or visible pain during movement. A veterinary evaluation can help determine the underlying cause and identify the most appropriate treatment options.
Is orthopedic surgery safe for pets?
Yes. Orthopedic surgery is generally very safe when appropriate precautions are taken. Before surgery, we perform a thorough evaluation and develop a customised anaesthesia plan. Your pet is closely monitored throughout the procedure to help ensure their safety and comfort.
How long does it take a pet to recover from orthopedic surgery?
Recovery time depends on the specific procedure and your pet’s overall health. Some pets recover within several weeks, while others may require a longer recovery period involving activity restrictions, rehabilitation, and follow-up care.
Will my pet be in pain after orthopedic surgery?
Pain management is an important part of every orthopedic procedure. We provide pain control before, during, and after surgery to keep your pet as comfortable as possible. Your pet may also go home with medications and detailed recovery instructions to support recovery.
What happens during an orthopedic consultation?
An orthopedic consultation typically includes a physical examination, mobility assessment, review of symptoms, diagnostic recommendations, and discussion of available treatment and surgical options.
Helping Your Pet Move Comfortably Again
Orthopedic surgery can make a meaningful difference in your pet’s comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Through advanced surgical care, individualised treatment plans, and ongoing support, our team helps pets regain function and return to the activities they enjoy.
If your pet is experiencing limping, stiffness, mobility issues, or signs of orthopedic pain, our team is here to help. We proudly serve pets and their families throughout Edmonton, Southside Edmonton, and the surrounding communities with compassionate, personalised care.
Schedule an Orthopedic Evaluation Today
Contact Ermineskin Veterinary Hospital today to schedule an orthopedic evaluation. Together, we can determine the cause of your pet’s discomfort and create a treatment plan designed to help them move more comfortably and confidently.
Contact us today to schedule your pet’s appointment.