In many instances a second opinion from a surgical specialist is useful. Evaluation will include a complete physical examination, detailed history, and X-rays of the pelvis. Sedation or anesthesia is often required to perform a complete physical examination or for obtaining the X-rays. Specialized X-rays may be required in circumstances where surgical options are being considered. Complications can occur after any surgical procedure, and often the cost of the operation is significant.
Excision means removal.
The TPO is a major operation that involves cutting the pelvic bone in 3 locations and reorienting the pelvic segments so that the hip joint becomes stable. Rarely, both hips are done during one anesthesia, but the possible complications generally outweigh the advantages of this approach. The dog must be young enough to benefit from the operation, and not already have significant arthritis, as this procedure is intended to prevent the development of arthritis. The second operation is done approximately 3-5 weeks after the first one. The dog should be using the limb that was operated on first fairly well before doing the second side.