Diagnosis of hip and elbow dysplasia
Orthopaedic examination and digital X-ray under sedation to check for hip and elbow dysplasia — in puppies (early assessment), in dogs with symptoms and for breeding purposes.
What it involves
Dysplasia is abnormal development of a joint: in the hip the head of the femur sits too loosely in the socket, and in the elbow the individual bones do not fit together perfectly. Over time the joint becomes overloaded, and inflammation and degeneration develop. It is largely an inherited disease, but its severity also depends on the rate of growth, feeding and physical strain during puppyhood.
Diagnosis is based on an orthopaedic examination and digital X-rays in strictly defined projections — for the hips with the dog on its back and the limbs extended, for the elbows in several positions. The images must be taken under sedation: relaxed muscles and perfectly symmetrical positioning are a prerequisite for assessment; without them the result is unreliable.
The result tells us not only “dysplasia is or is not present”, but also how lax the joint is and whether degenerative changes have already appeared. This lets us choose the management: from changes to feeding and activity to surgery.
When it is used
In puppies of large and giant breeds (shepherd breeds, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, Bernese Mountain Dogs) it is worth carrying out an early assessment at 4–6 months of age — some corrective procedures are then still possible. In dogs with symptoms we carry out the examination at any age. Official images for breeding evaluation are taken after 12 months of age (giant breeds — 18).
We suspect elbow dysplasia in young dogs that are lame on the front limbs, especially on both sides.
Indications: symptoms that should prompt a visit
- A large-breed puppy sways its hips when walking or runs “like a rabbit”, pushing off with both hind legs at once.
- A young dog is reluctant to get up and has difficulty with stairs and jumping into the car.
- After lying down for a while a dog gets up stiffly and moves better once it has loosened up.
- A young dog's front paws turn outwards, and the dog is lame on one or both.
- The thigh muscles are poorly developed compared with the front of the body.
- I want to check the hips and elbows before my dog is used for breeding.
Conditions for which we use it in particular
Diagnostics beforehand
We start with an orthopaedic examination including gait assessment and hip laxity tests (the Ortolani test in puppies). Before the X-ray we carry out a pre-sedation assessment: a clinical examination and, in adult and senior dogs, a basic blood test as well (STD-01).
How it proceeds
The dog arrives fasted. After the examination we give sedation with monitoring of oxygen saturation and pulse, position the patient in the required projections and take the images — the whole thing takes about 30–40 minutes. The dog wakes up under the care of staff and goes home the same day.
We assess the images straight away: we measure angles and check how well the head fits the socket and whether there are degenerative changes. We go through the result together on screen and record it in the medical records (STD-06). If the examination is for breeding evaluation, we prepare the images to be sent to an authorised evaluating veterinarian in line with the kennel club's requirements.
Aftercare
After sedation the dog may be sleepy until the evening; do not give a large meal for several hours. The procedure itself does not require recovery time.
Depending on the result we set out a plan: weight control, adjustment of activity and feeding, pain relief or — in young dogs with an early diagnosis — a consultation about surgery. We usually plan a check X-ray after 6–12 months.
Frequently asked questions
Is sedation necessary for a hip X-ray?
Yes. Without complete muscle relaxation the positioning is not symmetrical and the image cannot be assessed. The sedation is short and monitored.
At what age should a puppy be examined?
We carry out early assessment at 4–6 months of age in predisposed breeds. Images for breeding evaluation after 12 months (giant breeds 18).
Can dysplasia be cured?
A defect in the structure of the joint cannot be reversed, but appropriate management — from feeding to surgery — can reduce pain and slow degeneration. The plan depends on age and the degree of the changes.
Do you take images for the ZKwP (Polish Kennel Club)?
Yes, we take the images in the required projections and pass them on for evaluation by an authorised veterinarian.
We manage every case individually. The scope, indications and course described above are indicative; we agree the exact diagnostic and treatment plan during the consultation. This content is for information only and does not replace a veterinary consultation.
Have questions about diagnosis of hip and elbow dysplasia?
Call us or book a consultation. We will set out the diagnostic and treatment plan in writing, before you decide.