Open hip reduction using a toggle is a surgical procedure that stabilizes the hip for dogs that have experienced physical trauma to the joint.
Hip dislocation, also known as coxofemoral luxation, is a common orthopedic injury in dogs, often resulting from trauma such as being hit by a car or taking a hard fall. This condition occurs when the head of the femur slips out of the acetabulum (hip socket), leading to pain, limping, and limited mobility. While some cases respond well to closed reduction (manipulating the joint back into place without surgery), others require a more advanced surgical approach, such as open hip reduction using a toggle.
Understanding Hip Dislocation in Dogs
When a dog suffers a dislocated hip, it typically presents with a non-weight-bearing hind limb, pain during movement, and a leg that appears shorter or rotated. In some instances, closed reduction may initially succeed but fail to hold due to torn ligaments and capsule damage, causing the hip to pop back out of place. In these cases, surgical correction becomes necessary to restore joint stability and function.
Explanation of Open Hip Reduction Using a Toggle?
Open hip reduction that uses a toggle is a surgical technique designed to stabilize the hip joint in dogs by mimicking the natural function of the ligament of the head of the femur (ligamentum teres), which is often ruptured during dislocation. In this procedure, the surgeon creates a channel in the femoral head and acetabulum and places a synthetic ligament (toggle rod and suture) that acts as an internal stabilizer. This helps keep the femoral head securely positioned in the hip socket while the surrounding soft tissue heals.
The Surgical Process
- Anesthesia and Preparation: The dog is placed under general anesthesia, and the surgical area is shaved and sterilized.
- Joint Exposure: A small incision is made to access the dislocated hip. The femoral head is cleaned and examined for damage.
- Channel Creation: Holes are drilled into the femoral head and the acetabulum to create a pathway for the toggle.
- Toggle Placement: A toggle rod attached to a strong suture is passed through these channels, securing the femoral head back into the socket.
- Tissue Closure: Once stability is confirmed, the soft tissues and skin are sutured, and the dog is prepped for recovery.
Benefits of the Toggle Technique
- Reliable Stability: Mimics the natural ligament to maintain proper hip alignment.
- Preservation of the Joint: Avoids the need for more invasive procedures like femoral head ostectomy (FHO) or total hip replacement.
- Faster Recovery Compared to Other Surgical Options: With proper postoperative care, many dogs regain mobility within a few weeks.
- Cost-Effective Alternative: Often more affordable than total hip replacement while still offering excellent outcomes.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
After surgery, strict rest is essential for several weeks to allow the artificial ligament and surrounding tissues to heal. Physical therapy may be introduced gradually to restore range of motion and strength. Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications help ease discomfort during recovery. Most dogs show significant improvement in function and comfort within 6 to 8 weeks.
Is Your Dog a Candidate for Open Hip Reduction?
Open hip reduction that uses a toggle is best suited for dogs with acute, traumatic hip dislocations and good bone quality. It may not be ideal for dogs with chronic dislocations, severe arthritis, or underlying hip dysplasia. A veterinary surgeon will perform a thorough evaluation, including radiographs and physical exams, to determine if this is the best course of action.
Trust Maryland Veterinary Surgical Services With Your Companion’s Health
Your companion’s health is important, and the team at MVSS is ready to provide the best care possible for your furry family. We are dedicated to combining comprehensive exams and assessments with informative and honest discussions of your companion’s care. Once we have worked with you to decide on the best course of action for your dog, our professionals will use their surgical expertise to work towards the goal of giving your companion an active and pain-free life. We are proud to serve loyal companions in Catonsville and Baltimore. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 410-788-4088 or visit us online. For more information and tips for dog health, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.