Orthopedic Surgery
Veterinary Orthopedic Surgery in Bakersfield
Orthopedic surgeries are used to address problems with the joints, skeletal system and associated soft tissues, including muscles, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.
Our advanced imaging and diagnostic tools help us provide accurate and effective orthopedic diagnoses. Once a detailed diagnosis has been reached, our vets will work with you to decide on the best surgical treatment to meet your pet's needs.
Common Orthopedic Surgeries at Stine Veterinary Hospital
Our veterinarians offer a wide range of orthopedic surgeries to treat cats and dogs in Bakersfield including the following:
Fracture Repair
Any fractures (broken bones) that impact the ability to bear weight or joint mobility should be repaired with surgery. The type and location of the fracture will determine the best method to fix it. This may be plates and screws, bone pins and wire, or other types of fixtures.
Medial Patella Surgery
This surgery corrects the luxation (popping out) of the kneecap (patella). In this procedure, the vet removes a wedge- or block-shaped piece of cartilage and bone from the groove where the kneecap naturally sits. By creating a deeper groove, it becomes more difficult for the patella to dislocate.
Cruciate Repair
To prevent conditions like arthritis, torn cranial cruciate ligaments (CCL) in pets must be surgically repaired. Many different types of surgical procedures can be used to repair CCL injuries depending on the size of your furry friend.
TPLO Surgery
In dogs, Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery is often used to repair CCL tears. This procedure can help stabilize the joint, relieve pain, and prevent further damage.
Orthopedic Surgery FAQs
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What happens during the surgical consultation?
During the surgical consultation, we will perform a physical exam and review your pet’s medical history. We will also undertake blood work and any other diagnostic tests needed to determine the nature of your pet's condition.
Diagnostics may include X-rays or biopsies. Once our vets have the results of these tests, they will discuss the final plan and schedule your dog's surgery.
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How long will the surgery take?
Orthopedic surgeries generally last between two to four hours, depending on the type of surgery and your pet’s specific condition.
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Will the surgery and consultation happen on the same day?
No, a consultation appointment is required for testing and examination to determine the nature of your pet's health problem. Once any diagnostic test results have come back from our lab, the surgery can be scheduled.
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Does my pet have to stay at the hospital overnight either before or after the surgery?
Depending on the time of day the surgery is scheduled, it may be necessary to drop your pet off the night before. Your vet will provide detailed instructions for drop-off at the time of scheduling.
Many of our patients need to stay overnight after surgery to be monitored during recovery. Depending on the type of surgery and how quickly they recover after anesthesia and surgery, your pet may be able to go home on the same day.
New Patients Welcome
Stine Veterinary Hospital is accepting new patients! Our experienced vet is passionate about improving the health of Bakersfield companion animals. Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.