Patients should remain inactive for 6 weeks postoperatively. They should remain indoors, but allowed outside on a leash to eliminate. Short leash walks are allowed after 3 weeks. If necessary, tranquilizers are prescribed. Gradual return to normal activity is allowed between 6 and 8 weeks postoperatively.
Most dogs show a significant improvement in attitude, personality, and activity levels.
In instances of severe dysplasia, marked improvement in walking, sitting, climbing stairs, standing, running, getting into the car, playing, and performance can be expected. The incidence of complications is very low, but risks exist just as they would for surgery on people. Complications from infection, technical problems, and anesthesia can never be totally eliminated. Extreme precautions to minimize infection and anesthesia problems are taken. With owner and patient compliance, complications rarely occur.