The Benefits of Minimally Invasive Orthopedic Surgery for Pets

As a pet owner, you want to ensure that your furry friend receives the best possible care when it comes to orthopedic health. When your pet is suffering from an orthopedic condition, such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, or cruciate ligament injuries, surgery may be necessary to restore their mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, advances in veterinary medicine have led to the development of minimally invasive orthopedic surgery (MIS) techniques, which offer a safer, more effective, and less invasive alternative to traditional orthopedic surgery. Consult with a Richmond Hill veterinarian to determine if MIS is the right option for your pet.

What is Minimally Invasive Orthopedic Surgery?

Minimally invasive orthopedic surgery is a surgical technique that uses small incisions and specialized instruments to repair or replace damaged or diseased joints, bones, or soft tissues. Unlike traditional orthopedic surgery, which requires larger incisions and more tissue disruption, MIS is designed to minimize trauma to the surrounding tissues, reduce post-operative pain and inflammation, and promote faster recovery.

What Are The Benefits of Minimally Invasive Orthopedic Surgery for Pets?

The benefits of MIS for pets are numerous and well-documented. Some of the most significant advantages include:

Reduced Post-Operative Pain and Inflammation: MIS techniques are designed to minimize tissue trauma, which reduces postoperative pain and inflammation. This means that pets experience less discomfort and stress after surgery.
Faster Recovery Times: MIS procedures typically require shorter recovery times compared to traditional orthopedic surgery. This means that pets can return to their normal activities sooner, which is especially important for working dogs or pets with high energy levels.
Less Tissue Damage and Scarring: MIS techniques involve smaller incisions and less tissue disruption, which reduces the risk of tissue damage and scarring. This means that pets experience fewer postoperative complications and a lower risk of long-term tissue damage.
Improved Accuracy and Precision: MIS procedures often involve the use of specialized instruments and imaging technologies, such as arthroscopy or fluoroscopy. These technologies enable surgeons to visualize the affected area in real-time, which improves accuracy and precision during the procedure.
Reduced Risk of Complications: MIS procedures are designed to minimize the risk of complications, such as infection, nerve damage, or implant failure. This means that pets experience a lower risk of post-operative complications and a faster return to normal activities.

What Are The Common MIS Procedures for Pets?

Here are some common minimally invasive orthopedic surgery (MIS) procedures for pets:

Arthroscopic Procedures

Arthroscopic Joint Examination: A minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera to visualize the joint and diagnose conditions such as osteochondritis dissecans or cruciate ligament injuries.
Arthroscopic Meniscectomy: A procedure that uses arthroscopy to remove damaged or torn meniscal cartilage in the knee joint.
Arthroscopic Cruciate Ligament Repair: A procedure that uses arthroscopy to repair a torn cruciate ligament in the knee joint.

Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Procedures

Laparoscopic Spay/Neuter: A minimally invasive procedure that uses a laparoscope to spay or neuter pets.
Laparoscopic Gastropexy: A procedure that uses a laparoscope to attach the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV).
Endoscopic Foreign Body Removal: A procedure that uses an endoscope to remove foreign objects from the digestive tract.

Orthopedic Procedures

Minimally Invasive Fracture Repair: A procedure that uses specialized instruments and implants to repair fractures in pets, often using minimally invasive techniques to reduce tissue trauma and promote faster recovery.
Arthroscopic-Assisted Fracture Repair: A procedure that uses arthroscopy to assist in the repair of fractures in joints.
Minimally Invasive Joint Replacement: A procedure that uses specialized implants and minimally invasive techniques to replace damaged or arthritic joints.

If your pet is suffering from an orthopedic condition, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian or veterinary surgeon to determine if MIS is the right option for your furry friend.