It’s scary to think about femur fractures when it comes to our dogs.
When it comes to femur fractures in dogs, pet owners often find themselves feeling overwhelmed and anxious. After all, the femur—the thigh bone—is the strongest bone in a dog’s body. A break in this critical bone typically means your dog has experienced a significant trauma. Fortunately, surgical repair offers an excellent prognosis when handled quickly and correctly.
Understanding Femur Fractures in Dogs
Femur fractures can vary greatly depending on the type and location of the break. Some of the most common types include:
- Transverse fractures (a clean break across the bone)
- Oblique fractures (an angled break)
- Comminuted fractures (bone shattered into multiple pieces)
- Growth plate fractures (especially in puppies)
Regardless of the type, femur fractures are painful and must be treated promptly. Signs that your dog may have suffered a femur fracture include sudden lameness, refusal to bear weight on the leg, swelling, and signs of distress or pain.
Why Surgery is Often Necessary
Because the femur is deep within the dog’s musculature and bears a lot of weight, simple splints or casts are usually not enough. Surgical intervention is typically required to realign and stabilize the bone properly, ensuring proper healing and helping your dog regain normal function.
Surgical options may include:
- Bone plates and screws
- Intramedullary pins (rods inside the bone)
- External fixation devices (pins and rods outside the skin)
Your veterinarian or veterinary surgeon will choose the best method based on the specifics of the fracture and your dog’s overall health.
What to Expect Before Surgery
Once a femur fracture is suspected, your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and diagnostic imaging, usually X-rays, to confirm the break and assess its severity. Bloodwork may also be necessary to ensure your dog is healthy enough for anesthesia.
Prior to surgery, your dog may need to be stabilized if they have other injuries, internal bleeding, or signs of shock. Pain management is critical at this stage.
During the Surgery
During the procedure, the surgical team will realign the bone fragments and secure them using appropriate hardware. The goal is to restore the femur’s natural shape and function while minimizing the risk of complications like improper healing (malunion) or bone infection.
The surgery typically lasts a few hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Dogs are closely monitored throughout the procedure for heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and body temperature.
Recovery After Surgery
Post-operative care is vital for a successful recovery from femur fractures in dogs. Here’s what to expect:
- Hospitalization: Your dog may stay in the hospital for a day or two for pain management and observation.
- Activity Restriction: Strict rest is crucial for 6–8 weeks. Your dog should be confined to a crate or a small room and only allowed outside on a leash for potty breaks.
- Pain Management: Your veterinarian will prescribe pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications.
- Follow-up Appointments: X-rays will be taken periodically to monitor healing and ensure the bone is knitting properly.
- Physical Therapy: Depending on the severity of the fracture and your dog’s recovery progress, physical therapy may be recommended to rebuild strength and mobility.
Potential Complications
While most surgeries for femur fractures in dogs are successful, complications can occasionally occur, including:
- Infection at the surgical site
- Hardware failure
- Delayed bone healing
- Limping or reduced range of motion
Attending all follow-up appointments and carefully following post-operative care instructions can significantly reduce the risk of complications.
Long-Term Outlook
The good news? Most dogs recover very well after surgical repair of a femur fracture. Many return to their normal activities and even regain full athletic function once healing is complete. Some dogs might experience mild, occasional stiffness later in life, especially in cold weather, but with appropriate care, long-term outcomes are typically excellent.
If you suspect your dog has a femur fracture, prompt veterinary attention is crucial. Surgical repair offers the best chance for your furry friend to return to their happy, active life.
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.