Orthopaedic Surgery

We offer a broad range of orthopaedic procedures such as arthroscopy, neurectomy and fracture repair.

Arthroscopy Surgery

The practice has the Arthrex Vet System which enables minimally invasive surgical techniques using arthroscopy and accounts for a significant portion of surgical procedures performed. Its minimally invasive techniques allow the Veterinary Surgeon to evaluate synovial structures such as a joint, tendon sheath or bursa and is a little like keyhole surgery for humans!

 

Arthroscopy allows the veterinary surgeon to examine and diagnose any joint degeneration or injuries and is a useful precision tool which is minimally invasive and economical.

 

Horses overall have a high activity level due to frequent use both is sport and pleasure and this can make them more susceptible to injuries of the joints or articular surfaces.

Minimally Invasive

Your horse would be anaesthetised and prepared for theatre where a small precision camera is inserted via a small incision and depending on the complexity can take anywhere from 30 mins to a few hours. The detailed images are transmitted to a screen where the Veterinary Surgeon can manipulate the camera to view and assess the situation.

Common conditions treated

It is used for a number or applications such as:

  • Ligament Stabilization : Repairing torn or damaged ligaments.
  • Cartilage/Articular surface: Examining the joint surfaces -  Such conditions as arthritis, osteochondrosis and synovitis.
  • Surgery: Minimally invasive procedures that ensure better surgical precision and less recovery time such as removing bone chips.

The Benefits

Minimally invasive so recovery, pain and trauma are reduced compared to traditional open surgery.

  • With the highly technical equipment the Veterinary Surgeon can obtain a clear detailed view of the joint structures leading to diagnosis and the best choice of treatment.
  • Arthroscopy takes less anaesthesia, less time and less recovery which means it is a cost-effective surgical option.
  • Quicker recovery, with most horses returning to their normal life within a few weeks.

Contact the hospital to find out more or how Arthroscopy may benefit your horse.

Return to Referrals