What is orthopaedic surgery?

Orthopaedic surgery relates to your pet’s bones. Commonly we perform orthopaedic surgeries to repair broken bones or correct defects such as luxating patella and ruptured cruciate ligaments in dogs.

If your pet requires orthopaedic surgery our friendly staff will explain to you exactly what’s involved and what you’ll need to do, but here are the basics.

In the morning

You will be greeted by our friendly reception team on the morning of surgery, and your pet will be admitted into our surgical ward by one of our experienced surgical nurses. Our dedicated staff will be on hand to care for your pet. We’ll do a pre-anaesthesia exam (including blood testing if required). Your pet will be provided with a comfortable bed and will usually be administered a light sedation a few hours before the surgery is scheduled to assist in keeping them calm and relaxed prior to their procedure.

During surgery

General anaesthesia will be administered by our expert surgeon, and surgery is performed under close observation from the team of experienced nursing staff. Blood pressure, breathing rate and blood oxygen levels are monitored while our expert surgeon carries out the operation. We continue to monitor the pet during the recovery stage and they will be clean, dry, warm and settled in our state of the art vet practice.

What then?

In most cases, following orthopaedic surgery, pets are able to return home the day after surgery, once they have their pain under control. If there are any concerns about a pet’s recovery we may wish to hospitalize them for an extended stay for observation – your pet’s health is our top priority. On discharge, our experienced team will provide you with comprehensive post-surgery care instructions and follow up appointments.

If you’re worried about your pet’s health, call Adelaide Plains Veterinary Surgery to make an appointment today, (08) 8520 3600