Ventral acetabular augmentation to fix hip dislocation after dog hip

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To report ventral acetabular augmentation with an internal fixator for management of caudoventral luxation following total hip replacement in dogs and to report clinical outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical records from three UK-based referral hospitals were reviewed retrospectively between 2010 and 2020 to identify dogs with caudoventral hip luxation managed by ventral acetabular augmentation. Hip prosthesis component orientation was radiographically assessed to identify potential risk factors associated with the luxation. Clinical and radiographic assessments were performed at short-term (≤12 weeks) and long-term (>12 months) follow-up and all complications were recorded. A standardised owner telephone questionnaire was used to assess long-term outcomes when a clinical assessment was unavailable. RESULTS: Nine dogs were included. Risk factors contributing to the luxation could not be defined. Implants used included a string-of-pearls plate (6/9), a polyaxial locking plate combined with a polyethylene implant (1/9) or a polyethylene implant alone (2/9). Complications occurred in two of nine dogs, including recurrent luxation and femoral stem loosening; both dogs had received a polyethylene implant alone, of which one received explantation of the hip prosthesis. Median long-term follow-up was 39 months (range 13.5-62). Seven dogs who received a ventral acetabular plate achieved full function of the operated limb and the overall outcome was good for eight dogs. Follow-up radiographs revealed stable hip prostheses in dogs who received a ventral plate, with the longest assessment at 37 months postoperatively. Owner satisfaction was good for all cases. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Ventral acetabular augmentation can successfully manage caudoventral luxation following total hip replacement in dogs.