Case Study: Evaluating a Canine Hip Replacement
This case report describes sequential assessment of hind limb use in a case of bilateral total hip replacement in a dog, and demonstrates how Tekscan’s Walkway™ allowed for objective evaluation of changing limb use as the total hip replacements were performed.
By Mila Friere-Gonzalez, DVM & B. Duncan X. Lascelles, PhD
This case summary describes the background of a case of bilateral total hip replacement in a dog, and demonstrates how the Walkway™ animal gait analysis system allowed for objective evaluation of changing limb use as the total hip replacements were performed. Full case study available upon request by clicking the orange button on the right side of the page.
Background: A 9 year old female spayed German Shepherd Dog presents to the NCSU orthopedic service for hip dysplasia.
Reported problems: The owner has observed that the dog is primarily using its forelimbs to get up. The owner has starting to notice the dog has trouble getting into the car, is not generally as active and has gained weight. Up until this time, the owner has not ever noticed any problems (no pain, no lameness).
Orthopedic exam: Bilateral hind limb muscle atrophy. Weight shifting to forelimbs. Short weight bearing phase of gait.
1. Left forelimb:
a. Elbow 1/3 crepitus, no pain, no effusion, minimal loss of flexion.
2. Right forelimb:
a. Elbow 1/3 crepitus, no pain, no effusion, minimal loss of flexion.
3. Left hind limb:
a. Stifle: 1/3 crepitus, no pain, no effusion.
b. Hip: 2/3 crepitus, loss of extension and abduction, 2/3 pain. Thigh circumference of 42.5 cm.
4. Right hind limb:
a. Stifle: 1/3 crepitus, no pain, no effusion, medial sub-luxation of patella (3-4 mm).
b. Hip: 2/3 crepitus, 2/3 pain on extension, decreased extension and abduction. Thigh circumference 42 cm.
Figure 1. Ventro-dorsal radiograph of coxofemoral joints at initial visit.
Note the lack of extension of both hind limbs that was possible.
Neurologic exam: Decrease in conscious proprioception left hind limb, that could be attributed to pain. No spinal pain. No LS pain.
Overall Assessment: Bilateral hip dysplasia with severe DJD (Figure 1) and significant pain, as a consequence.
Treatment Plan: Medical management consisting of increasing exercise facilitated by NSAID administration (carprofen) and glucosamine/chondroitin sulphate combination.
Typical Pressure Sensor Model Used for Post-Surgical Evaluation
- Sensor Model 7101QL
Sensing Area Total Width Height Sensels Sensel Density 76.80 in. 17.60 in. 33,792 25.0 in.2 1950.7 mm 447.0 mm 33,792 3.9 cm2
View all of Tekscan’s Pressure Sensors
Animal Walkway™ System
Low profile floor walkway system that captures multiple sequential foot strikes of animals.
American College of Veterinary Surgeons Symposium
Nov 1st 2012 -
Nov 3rd 2012
National Harbor, MD
Tekscan will be displaying our Walkway™ System to veterinary practitioners and veterinary surgeons ...More >
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