Our Summary

This research paper is a review of 55 hip replacement surgeries performed on dogs using the Helica hip endoprosthesis system between January 2010 and February 2015. The study aimed to assess the long-term outcomes and potential complications of this procedure.

Out of the 55 surgeries, 45 were performed on dogs with hip problems on one side only, while 5 dogs had the procedure on both hips. The surgeries used two types of femoral stems, with the ‘first-generation’ stem used in 22 dogs and the ‘second-generation’ stem in 28 dogs.

The results showed that complications occurred in about 35% of the cases. The most common problem was loosening of the femoral stem, which happened in 20% of cases. However, it was found that the ‘second-generation’ stem had fewer complications than the ‘first-generation’ one.

Despite the complications, most dogs (86% with the first-generation stem and 93% with the second-generation stem) recovered satisfactorily after any necessary follow-up corrections. Additionally, the dogs’ arthritis scores improved significantly after the surgery.

In conclusion, the study found the Helica hip endoprosthesis system to be an effective treatment for hip dysplasia and arthritis in dogs. The most common complication was loosening of the femoral stem, but the risk of this happening was reduced with the use of the second-generation stem.

FAQs

  1. What was the aim of the research study reviewing hip replacement surgeries on dogs using the Helica hip endoprosthesis system?
  2. What were the most common complications found in dogs that underwent the hip replacement surgery?
  3. Did the type of femoral stem used in the surgery have any impact on the rate of complications?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hip replacement is to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully, including physical therapy exercises and restrictions on certain activities. It is important to keep the hip joint moving to prevent stiffness and to allow for proper healing. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and participating in regular exercise can help to support the new hip joint and reduce the risk of complications in the future.

Suitable For

Overall, patients who are typically recommended for hip replacement surgery are those who have severe hip pain and disability that is not adequately controlled with conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Common conditions that may warrant hip replacement surgery include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, hip dysplasia, and hip fractures.

Patients who have significant limitations in their daily activities, experience pain at rest or during movement, have difficulty walking or climbing stairs, and have failed to respond to non-surgical treatments may be candidates for hip replacement surgery. Additionally, patients who have structural abnormalities in the hip joint that cannot be corrected through other means may also benefit from hip replacement surgery.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if they are suitable candidates for hip replacement surgery. Factors such as age, overall health, bone quality, and functional status will be taken into consideration when making this decision. Patients who are deemed appropriate candidates for hip replacement surgery can expect significant improvements in pain relief, mobility, and quality of life following the procedure.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline of a patient before and after hip replacement surgery typically involves:

  • Pre-surgery: The patient undergoes various tests and assessments to determine if they are a suitable candidate for hip replacement surgery. This may include X-rays, MRIs, blood tests, and physical examinations. The patient may also meet with a surgeon to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes.

  • Surgery day: The patient arrives at the hospital or surgical center and undergoes the hip replacement procedure, which can take several hours. The surgery involves removing damaged parts of the hip joint and replacing them with artificial components.

  • Post-surgery: The patient is monitored closely in the recovery room before being moved to a hospital room or discharged home. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises may begin shortly after surgery to help the patient regain strength and mobility in the hip joint.

  • Weeks to months after surgery: The patient continues physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises to improve range of motion and strength in the hip joint. Pain and swelling gradually decrease, and the patient may be able to resume normal activities with some restrictions.

  • Long-term: The patient will need to follow up with their surgeon for regular check-ups and monitoring of the hip replacement. Most patients experience significant improvement in pain and mobility after hip replacement surgery and are able to return to their daily activities with reduced hip pain.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hip replacement surgery using the Helica hip endoprosthesis system?
  2. How long is the recovery period expected to be and what kind of post-operative care will be required?
  3. What kind of physical therapy or rehabilitation will be necessary after the surgery?
  4. How long can I expect the hip replacement to last and what are the factors that may affect its longevity?
  5. Are there any restrictions or limitations on activities that I should be aware of after the surgery?
  6. What kind of pain management options will be available to me during the recovery period?
  7. How often will follow-up appointments be necessary and what will be checked during those appointments?
  8. Are there any specific signs or symptoms that I should watch out for that may indicate a complication or issue with the hip replacement?
  9. Will I need to make any modifications to my lifestyle or daily routine after the surgery?
  10. What is the success rate of the Helica hip endoprosthesis system in treating hip dysplasia and arthritis in dogs, based on the results of this study?

Reference

Authors: Denny HR, Linnell M, Maddox TW, Comerford EJ. Journal: J Small Anim Pract. 2018 Jun;59(6):350-356. doi: 10.1111/jsap.12827. Epub 2018 Mar 25. PMID: 29574978