[GSDMomx2]

Michael right hip is deteriorating and has an appointment June 9th with an Orthopedic Surgeon and a Pulmonologist at Dallas's referral only specialities Hospital/Clinic. Our regular vet is expecting a total hip replacement will be suggested. The Pulmonologist is involved because Michael is a Mega-e dog.

I would really appreciate your suggestions, experiences, comments and anything in particular I should discuss with them that I might not think to ask about. I was told the cost should be in the $2000-3000 range and I am wondering if that amount seems appropriate?

 

[M&J]

Several of us have been through hip replacement with our dogs and are happy to help you.
Find out if they do cemented or cementless THRs.
What a lucky dog to have you. Mega E and HD---you are earning your angel wings!

Recovery from THR is not as bad as you think. Time goes by very fast once you have a routine down. Rudy's surgery was $3800 plus followup x rays etc.

 

[moribelle]

Nancy, have you heard about trying the IRAP treatment first before hip replacement, especially considering your pup is compromised with his pulmonary condition?

It is the newest technique for treatment of hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and LS Joint issues causing weakness in the hindquarters including sciatica.

I'm a new member and just posted some info about it, perhaps you'd like to read it before making your decision. Sherry

 

[Spiritsmam]

My Shep had both hips replaced and Sam had one hip replaced twice (it luxated 10 days post op). I've heard all sorts of horror stories, but as Mary wrote, recovery is not as bad as you'd think.

THR's at NC State Vet school (BFX cementless) run around $3800 which includes exams and radiographs at 3 months and 6 months.

A couple of things - Sams hip replacement was almost expected to pop out. He had a chronically luxated hip after being hit by a car which made placing the initial implant difficult. As his muscles restretched so the head became loose in the cup and out it popped!

As for Shep's THR - he was medically managed from the age of 3 until 12 when he finally needed the THR.

Wishing you the best

 

[moribelle]

Sorry I misspoke, your pup's MegaEsophageal condition. I actually had a dog that received one hip replacement (press fit), it worked wonderfully, then really needed the second one done, but the IRAP treatment saved him from that. If I had known ahead of time about the treatment before hand, I think I could have saved him from having the first hip replacement.
Dogs usually do very well with them though, but if you are looking for a non-surgical alternative to try, let me know. Google: Osseus Enterprises, LLC for more information.
Good luck.