HIP DYSPLASIA

Hip dysplasia is the main pathology of the coxo-femoral joint in dogs and is the most common cause of osteoarthritis affecting this joint. It occurs with variable incidence in different breeds, predominantly in large-sized individuals.

The spherical femoral head is correctly maintained within the acetabulum by the balance of forces exerted by bones, muscles, tendons, and ligamentous structures.

Despite years of research, study, and information provided to veterinarians, breeders, and owners, progress in the prevention of this potentially disabling disease for our patients is still inadequate. Thanks to the efforts of researchers, veterinarians, and conscientious breeders, a significant reduction in the incidence of this pathology is desirable.

Early diagnosis - at 5/6 months of age - of hip dysplasia with preventive radiography during the planned radiological check for the elbows allows for the adoption of behavioural and environmental measures that can greatly reduce the rapid progression of the disease. Proper nutrition is also of fundamental importance for controlling hip dysplasia and its consequences.

Preventive radiography at 8/10 months of age allows - in the absence of signs of hip dysplasia - the breeder to plan investment in the possible competitive career of the dog; otherwise, it allows the veterinarian to suggest corrective surgical techniques that, if implemented early, can prevent the dog from suffering the severe, painful, and disabling consequences of the disease.

Anamnesis, clinical examination, radiographs, but above all experience, are essential for evaluating the opportunity for therapeutic intervention, whether surgical or conservative; what type of intervention and with what cost-benefit ratio, not only in economic terms but above all in terms of the quality of life and the attitude of the dog, the environment in which it lives, as well as the owner's objective expectations.

A preventive radiographic study is recommended in breeds at risk as early as 3.5 months. This allows for early diagnosis and, if conditions permit, minimally invasive surgical intervention before 5 months of age.

After 5 months, it is still necessary to take radiographs and, if necessary and feasible, perform corrective interventions such as double pelvic osteotomy (DPO).

There may be different therapeutic indications for each age of the dog.