Total hip replacement in dogs with contralateral pelvic limb amputation: A retrospective evaluation of 13 cases

Objective To report the clinical characteristics, surgical management, and medium-term outcomes of total hip replacement (THR) performed in dogs with previous contralateral pelvic limb amputation. Animals Thirteen client-owned dogs. Study design Multi-institutional retrospective clinical study. Methods Data recorded from medical records included signalment, indication for amputation and THR, and surgical complications. Implant positioning and complications were assessed on radiographs. Clinical outcomes were evaluated during follow-up examinations by one of the authors and through a mobility- and lifestyle-based questionnaire completed by owners. Results All 13 dogs had satisfactory clinical results at follow-up a median of 3 months (range, 2-36) after THR. No postoperative luxation was recorded. Four dogs had minor complications that did not require additional treatment. The only major complication was one failure of osseointegration of a cementless acetabular cup, and it was successfully revised. Conclusion Total hip replacement resulted in satisfactory clinical results and acceptable morbidity in this population. Clinical significance Total hip replacement should be considered in dogs with severe coxofemoral joint disease and contralateral pelvic limb amputation.