Results of single-session bilateral triple pelvic osteotomy with an eight-hole iliac bone plate in dogs: 95 cases (1996-1999)

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate feasibility of single-session bilateral triple pelvic osteotomy with 8-hole iliac bone plates in dogs with bilateral hip dysplasia. DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: 95 dogs with bilateral hip dysplasia. PROCEDURE: Medical records were reviewed, and information was obtained on signalment; body weight; angles of subluxation and reduction prior to surgery; durations of surgery and hospitalization; postoperative mobility; severity of lameness, radiographic grade of hip dysplasia, Norberg angle, and femoral head coverage before and after surgery; time required for radiographic evidence of iliac healing; change in pelvic diameter; implant integrity; and complications. RESULTS: Mean age at the time of surgery was 10.8 months, and mean weight was 35.2 kg (77.4 lb). Prior to surgery, mean angles of subluxation were 2.2 degrees on the right and 2.6 degrees on the left; mean angles of reduction were 25.9 degrees on the right and 27.3 degrees on the left. Mean surgical time was 95 minutes. All but 1 dog were able to walk on their own by the fourth day after surgery. Mean hospitalization time was 7.5 days. Clinical signs of lameness and radiographic grade of hip dysplasia were significantly improved during follow-up examinations. Mean time for radiographic iliac healing was 8 weeks. None of the plates and only 7 of the 1,520 (0.5%) screws loosened after surgery. Nineteen dogs had complications, but all complications were minor. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggest that single-session bilateral triple pelvic osteotomy with 8-hole iliac bone plates is effective for treatment of dogs with bilateral hip dysplasia.