A triple pelvic osteotomy is a procedure that involves making three osteotomies of the pelvis to allow rotation of the pelvis in order to create better coverage and greater contact for the femoral head within the acetabulum (hip socket).

TPO is used to treat young dogs with evidence of hip dysplasia, including hip subluxation and laxity. This procedure must be performed in young dogs, prior to the development of any radiographically visible degenerative changes in the hip. The ideal age for TPO is generally considered to be 6-12 months of age, but older dogs are occasionally candidates for a TPO. In addition to age, the severity of the hip dysplasia determines a dog’s suitability for this procedure. Dogs with severe luxation or malformation of the femoral head or acetabulum may not be good candidates regardless of age.

If patients are selected carefully, the prognosis for significantly improved function and quality of life following TPO is excellent. Some degree of arthritis can still develop later in life, but in most cases it is not severe enough to require further treatment. Potential complications  following TPO include implant failure if exercise restriction is not enforced, infection, and rarely, sciatic nerve damage.

Your pet’s recovery and well-being are our primary concerns, so please do not hesitate to call and speak with a surgical technician or surgeon if there are any questions regarding your pet’s recovery.