Pelvic Surgery

Pelvic injuries may be the result of hip dysplasia, trauma, or degenerative joint disease and can significantly affect your pet’s ability to walk, toilet, and live comfortably. At Belconnen Veterinary Centre, we offer advanced pelvic surgery for dogs and cats, including:  

TPO - Triple Pelvis Osteotomy

  • To improve hip joint stability in young animals with early hip dysplasia (before arthritis sets in).

    • Involves cutting the pelvic bone in three places (ilium, ischium, pubis). 

    • The acetabulum (hip socket) is rotated to better cover the femoral head. 

    • Fixed with a bone plate and screws. 

    • Dogs < 10–12 months old 

    • Minimal to no arthritis present 

    • Good femoral head conformation n text goes here

  • Primarily dogs (rare in cats) 

FHO - Femoral Head Osteotomy

  • To eliminate pain from hip dysplasia, trauma, or chronic arthritis.

    • The head and neck of the femur are surgically removed. 

    • A fibrous false joint forms between the femur and pelvis. 

    • Pain is relieved by eliminating bone-on-bone contact. 

    • Dogs and cats of any age and any breed 

    • Ideal for small dogs and cats (<20–25 kg) 

    • Can be used in larger dogs as a last resort if THR (Total Hip Replacement) is not an option 

  • Dogs and cats (very successful in cats and small dogs)

DPO - Double Pelvis Osteotomy

  • Same as TPO — for young animals with early hip laxity. 

    • Like TPO, but involves only two cuts (ilium and pubis or ilium and ischium). 

    • Reduces surgical trauma and may result in faster recovery. 

    • Dogs under 1 year with mild to moderate laxity and no arthritic changes. 

  • Dogs (less invasive alternative to TPO)

Signs of Pelvic Injury in Pets 

If your pet has suffered trauma or is showing signs such as: 

These signs can suggest hip dysplasia, trauma, or degenerative joint disease, and may warrant advanced pelvic surgery: 

    • Limping or hindlimb lameness 

    • Bunny-hopping gait when running 

    • Stiffness after rest, especially in the morning 

    • Reluctance or difficulty rising, jumping, or using stairs 

    • Uneven weight bearing or shifting weight to front legs 

    • Muscle loss in the hind limbs (especially gluteals) 

    • Narrow or tucked pelvis 

    • Swaying or "waddling" gait 

    • Pelvic asymmetry or visible deformity (in trauma cases) 

    • Yelping or crying when hips are touched 

    • Aggression or flinching during handling 

    • Licking or chewing at the hip or lower back 

 Advanced Imaging & Surgical Planning 

We use digital X-rays and CT scans to create accurate surgical plans. Our in-house imaging allows us to diagnose fractures quickly and decide whether surgery is necessary or if conservative management (rest and pain relief) is more appropriate. 

Book a Pelvic Injury Assessment Today 

If your pet has had a fall, road accident or is suddenly struggling to move, don’t delay. Our team is here to help get them back on their paws