Surgery is undoubtedly one of the strengths of the veterinary practice Des Bergières. Indeed, very modern techniques, such as minimally invasive surgery (for sterilization with the least possible pain, or to view and treat joints, etc.) have been practiced proactively for years.
We have two fully equipped surgical suites, which can be used simultaneously at any time in response to the potential urgency for surgery. Hence, many vets trust us and refer complex orthopedic surgery cases to us or laser surgery, for example.
You will find numeous explanations on this website about different surgery and their techniques, especially on the most common types of surgery.
OSTEOSYNTHESIS OF SIMPLE AND COMPLEX FRACTURES
The purpose of surgical treatment for fractures is anatomical reconstruction and restoration of function. According to the Association for Osteosynthesis AO, the basic principles of osteosynthesis are fracture reduction to restore anatomical relationships, fracture fixation providing absolute or relative stability, preservation of blood supply and early and safe functional mobilization.
Depending on the location and complexity of the fracture that your pet presents with, we will choose the most suitable fixation method from the latest developments in osteosynthesis devices: locking compression plates (LCP), dynamic compression plates (DCP), or, more traditionally, from the usual plates and screws, strapping and external fixers.
RUPTURE OF THE ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT
Rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament is the most common reason for consultation in veterinary orthopedics. Just as in humans, it is a rupture of a ligament of the knee. It induces instability in the joint and hence an acute lameness with suppression of support; the animal does not often put weight on its paw. There may also be associated medial meniscal lesions. A partial or progressive rupture of the ligament is also possible; in this case it induces less obvious lameness.
Surgery is often necessary because without treatment, the instability of the knee will lead to a very rapid development of osteoarthritis. Two surgical techniques are possible, depending on the weight and physical activity of the dog:
- First one, called modified De Angelis technique, reserved for small dog breeds, restores surgical stability by the fitting of a prosthesis on the outside of the knee joint.
- The second, called TTA (tibial tuberosity advancement), requires mastery of orthopedic surgery and the use of specific equipment. It consists of modifying the anatomical contour of the tibia by means of titanium implants in order to rebalance the forces exerted on the knee whose anterior cruciate ligament has been damaged. This technique restores stability to the knee.
PATELLAR DISLOCATION
Dislocation of the patella is a medical condition frequently encountered in dogs. It can be congenital (most often in small dog breeds) or traumatic, and leads to posterior lameness, which is more or less disabling, depending on the stage of the disorder.
Early detection of dislocation of the kneecap has several advantages: first, it can stop the discomfort and pain, but above all it avoids the onset of complications such as osteoarthritis or rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee.
To avoid these kinds of complications, we perform a surgical procedure that consists of femoral trochlear hollowing and then tibial crest transposition. Finally, we tighten the lateral and medial ties on the patella in equal measure to stabilize it correctly in the joint.
AMPUTATION
Amputation of a limb, or part of a limb, may be considered as the result of an accident or a serious illness such as bone cancer. Even if it requires delicate surgery, amputation can save the life of the animal and greatly improve its quality of life because it removes the origin of its pain and suffering. Contrary to what one can imagine, most dogs and cats adapt very easily to their amputee limbs and relearn quickly to walk, or even to run.
If the idea of subjecting your pet to amputation frightens you, we can put you in touch with owners of amputee pets, who will reassure you.
Other surgical services
