The diseased femoral head in the hip joint is replaced by a metal ball on a stem that fits inside the femur. A plastic cup is implanted into the pelvis to replace the damaged socket. The new prosthetic components are designed to allow the joint to move the same way as the normal hip. The metal alloy and polyethylene components are very durable. Acrylic bone cement is used to anchor the implants to the bone.
Most dogs are able to stand and walk on the new prosthesis within the first few days after surgery.
While hospitalized, exercise is restricted to cage confinement with 10 to 15 minute walks, under leash restraint, twice daily. Most animals undergoing total hip replacement are hospitalized for a total of 3 to 4 days. Management at home will require supervision, and activity must be restricted to walks under leash restraint for 4 weeks. During this time care should be taken to avoid activity on slippery surfaces, and stairs should be taken only while the dog is under the direct control of the owner. One month after surgery, supervised exercise can be gradually increased over the next 4 weeks.