Managing Disorders of the Canine Hind Limb - Pelvis and Hip
Introduction[edit | edit source]
Hind limb lameness is more commonly seen than forelimb lameness in canine patients.[1] This lameness is often due to dysfunction at the stifle (e.g. cranial cruciate disease) or the hip (e.g. hip dysplasia).[1] This page explores some of the most common canine pelvic and hip conditions encountered in animal physiotherapy practice. While some conditions are more common than others, a thorough assessment is always essential to ensure a correct diagnosis is made.[1]
Pelvic Fracture[edit | edit source]
At least 25 percent of all fractures seen in small animal patients are pelvic fractures.[2]
Almost all pelvic fractures are caused by major trauma (e.g. being hit by a car). HARASEN
- Animals who are hit from behind usually have a combination of one or both sacroiliac joints luxated, as well as associated sacral fracture/s and long, oblique fractures of one or both ilia
- An impact from the side often causes the femoral head to be driven into the acetabulum, which causes acetabular fracture and associated fractures of the ilium and pubis (HARASEN)
Because the pelvis has a continuous ring configuration, fractures do not occur in isolation - there will always be more than one fracture. HARASEN
Pelvic fractures are often associated with other injuries due to the forces involved. These include: HARASEN
- Thoracic trauma (in 50 percent of patients)
- Urinary tract trauma (in 39 percent of patients)
- Peripheral nerve damage (in 11 percent of patients)
Treatment
Because the major muscle groups around the pelvis provide significant stability to most fractures, pelvic fractures are usually managed conservatively. HARASEB 75 percent of animals with pelvic fractures will recover without surgery. This is particularly true of small animal patients (i.e. dogs and cats). HARASEN
Surgery is most commonly considered in patients with: HARASEN
- Sacral fractures
- Sacroiliac luxations
- Iliac body fractures
- Acetabular fractures
