Our Summary

This study looked at how effective and safe it is to use a specific type of anesthesia, called lumbosacral extradural anesthesia, in dogs having total hip replacements. They looked back at records of dogs who had this treatment, where the anesthesia was combined with either morphine or another drug. They deemed the treatment a success if the dog didn’t need any additional pain relief during the operation and for three hours afterwards.

The researchers found that this method worked well in nearly 9 out of 10 cases. However, during the operation, some dogs experienced high carbon dioxide levels, low blood pressure, and low body temperature. After the operation, some dogs had difficulty urinating, some had upset stomachs, and a small number had temporary nerve damage in the operated leg. In a very small number of cases, the new hip joint dislocated after the surgery, and one dog had a heart attack.

Despite these issues, the researchers concluded that this type of anesthesia is a good choice for dogs undergoing hip replacement, due to its high success rate and relatively low risk of complications directly related to the anesthesia.

FAQs

  1. What is lumbosacral extradural anesthesia and how effective is it in dogs undergoing hip replacement?
  2. What complications may occur during and after the operation when this type of anesthesia is used?
  3. Did the research conclude that the lumbosacral extradural anesthesia is a good choice for dogs undergoing hip replacement?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering hip replacement surgery that while there are risks involved with the procedure, the success rate is high and the benefits often outweigh the potential complications. They may also emphasize the importance of following post-operative care instructions, such as physical therapy and avoiding certain activities, to ensure a successful recovery and long-term function of the new hip joint.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended for hip replacement surgery are those who have severe hip pain and limited mobility due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures, avascular necrosis, or other hip joint diseases. These patients may have tried non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications without success. Hip replacement surgery is usually considered as a last resort when conservative treatments have failed to provide relief.

Timeline

  • Before hip replacement:
  1. Patient experiences chronic hip pain and limited mobility.
  2. Patient undergoes consultation with orthopedic surgeon to discuss the need for hip replacement surgery.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to determine candidacy for surgery.
  4. Patient receives instructions on pre-operative preparations, such as stopping certain medications and fasting before surgery.
  • Day of hip replacement surgery:
  1. Patient arrives at the hospital or surgical center and meets with the surgical team.
  2. Patient receives anesthesia and is prepared for surgery.
  3. Surgeon performs hip replacement surgery, which typically takes a few hours.
  4. Patient is monitored closely during and after the surgery to ensure stability and proper recovery.
  • After hip replacement surgery:
  1. Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is monitored for any immediate complications.
  2. Patient is given pain medication to manage post-operative pain.
  3. Patient begins physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the hip joint.
  4. Patient is discharged from the hospital and provided with post-operative care instructions.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and progress.
  6. Patient gradually resumes daily activities and gradually returns to normal functioning.

Overall, hip replacement surgery is a multi-step process that involves careful evaluation, preparation, surgery, and post-operative care. With proper medical guidance and rehabilitation, most patients experience significant improvement in hip function and quality of life after hip replacement surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about hip replacement surgery include:

  1. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the anesthesia?
  3. How successful is this type of anesthesia in ensuring pain relief during and after the surgery?
  4. What steps will be taken to monitor and manage any potential side effects or complications during the surgery?
  5. How will the anesthesia affect my recovery process and pain management after the surgery?
  6. Are there any specific criteria or conditions that may make this type of anesthesia unsuitable for me?
  7. How does this type of anesthesia compare to other options available for hip replacement surgery?
  8. Can you provide information on the success rate and outcomes of patients who have undergone hip replacement surgery with this type of anesthesia?
  9. What steps will be taken to minimize the risk of complications such as high carbon dioxide levels, low blood pressure, or nerve damage during the surgery?
  10. How will my overall health and medical history be taken into consideration when determining the most appropriate anesthesia for my hip replacement surgery?

Reference

Authors: Viilmann I, Klöppel H, Wringe E, Vettorato E. Journal: Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol. 2022 Mar;35(2):81-89. doi: 10.1055/s-0041-1736194. Epub 2021 Sep 24. PMID: 34560807