Vet Arthroscopy For Dogs
Minimally Invasive Joint Care.
It can be hard not to worry when your dog starts to slow down, limp or seems uncomfortable. Joint problems can creep up gradually or they can appear suddenly after an injury, although the cause isn’t always obvious. In some cases, their pain or discomfort can continue even after rest, medication or basic imaging.
At Plus One Vet, we are trained, equipped and experienced to perform vet arthroscopy for dogs (and cats), giving us a closer look at the joint to understand the cause of the problem. It means we can diagnose and even provide treatment in one minimally invasive joint surgery, so your pooch can get onto recovering. Booking an appointment is the best way to explore if an arthroscopy is an option for your furry friend.
What is an arthroscopy for dogs?
An arthroscopy for dogs is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the inside of a joint more closely. A small camera is inserted into the joint through a tiny incision, which can help:
- Diagnosis and provide treatment in one visit.
- Provide early intervention.
- Perform detailed joint assessment.
- Allow for precise tissue removal.
We may recommend this type of joint-specific endoscopy if your pet has ongoing joint pain or lameness, or when we need clearer answers to decide on the best next step.
Benefits of a Canine Arthroscopy
There are many benefits of utilising canine arthroscopy on top of its ability to give us accurate information, including:
- Smaller incisions.
- Less post-operative discomfort.
- Faster recovery for dogs.
- Precise diagnosis.
- Targeted treatment, when needed.
For many dogs, it means a quicker return to more comfortable movement for a range of joint problems.
Common Dog Joint Problems Diagnosed & Treated With Arthroscopy
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)
OCD in dogs involves abnormal cartilage developing in the joint. With arthroscopy, we can identify and even remove damaged cartilage or loose fragments, helping reduce pain and protect long-term joint health.
Elbow Dysplasia
Common in young or larger dog breeds, elbow dysplasia is a painful disorder caused by the elbow joint bones not fitting together properly. An arthroscopy can help assess the extent of the cartilage damage and manage inflammation inside the joint.
Cruciate Ligament Tears & Meniscal Injuries
In some cases, arthroscopy can be used to assess associated cartilage or meniscus damage, especially when your dog’s symptoms are ongoing or unclear.
Joint Infections
When we suspect an infection in your dog’s joints, arthroscopy can help us diagnose, take samples and flush the joints.
Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder pain can be difficult to pinpoint in dogs. Arthroscopy allows our vets to assess the cartilage, tendons and joint surfaces directly without more invasive surgery to determine what’s going on.
Osteoarthritis
In dogs with arthritis, arthroscopy can help assess the extent of the joint damage and support decisions around ongoing care.
Hip Dysplasia & Cartilage Damage
An arthroscopy procedure may be used to help evaluate inflammation or cartilage wear, helping guide longer-term treatment or management plans to keep your dog comfortable.
What to Expect During Arthroscopic Surgery for Dogs
If arthroscopy is recommended, Dr. Leo or our vets at Plus One Vet will explain why it may help and what’s involved so you can make a comfortable, informed decision.
Before the procedure, your dog will be given a full health check to make sure they’re suitable for anaesthesia and arthroscopic surgery. Once cleared, we’ll place your pet under general anaesthesia. The procedure itself involves making small incisions around the joint to insert the tube and camera. If treatment is required, it is carried out during the same procedure.
Most dogs are able to return home the same day after arthroscopy with clear aftercare instructions so you feel comfortable caring for them.
Dog Arthroscopy Recovery
Recovery for your dog after an arthroscopy depends on the specific joint involved and what’s found during surgery. Most dogs experience less discomfort than with open joint surgery and recover more quickly. They will need to be on restricted activity while they recover, with a gradual return to their normal movements.
Our vets will guide you on pain relief, rest and follow-up care so you can best support your pup’s healing.
Exceptional Pet Care
Reviews From Our Happy Pet Parents in Sunnybank
Maria Martins
Customer
“Really friendly, helpful and caring staff, my dogs always feels comfortable coming to the vet and doesn’t get scared. Would definitely recommend.“
Dylan Fewings
Customer
“The practice were very kind and helpful, Dr Leo is a professional and helped me understand what was going on with my little fella”
Miranda Huang
Customer
“Best Vet in Brisbane. Dr Leo always asked me about my cats situation. And also congratulations about Leo’s second baby born.”
Dido Woo
Customer
“Best vet ever! Staff are very caring and friendly, Dr Leo is super professional. Thx for looking after my senior boi Million, definitely will come back for next year’s vaccination.”
Discuss Arthroscopy For Dog Elbow, Hip & Joint Problems With Dr. Leo Today
If your dog is struggling with ongoing joint pain or lameness, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Book an appointment with Dr. Leo and our team at Plus One Vet Sunnybank to talk through your dog’s symptoms and whether arthroscopy is the right option.
