Orthopaedic Surgery at Pet Doctors Tristram Street
Orthopaedics is the branch of Veterinary medicine focused on diagnosing and treating injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system. This includes problems such as torn ligaments and tendons, fractures, dislocations, slipped or herniated discs, and conditions like hip or elbow dysplasia.
While some orthopaedic procedures can be performed at a general-practice level, many cases benefit from referral to Veterinarians with a special focus on orthopaedic surgery, or to registered Veterinary orthopaedic specialists who have completed advanced training and certification.
At Pet Doctors Tristram Street, we can diagnose most orthopaedic conditions. Some cases, however, require advanced imaging such as CT or MRI. When these are needed, we can help coordinate referral to a veterinarian with orthopaedic expertise or to a specialist centre.
We are fortunate to have an exceptionally experienced and widely respected Veterinary orthopaedic specialist, Dr Richard Jerram from VSA, consulting at our clinic twice a month.
During these visits, he is available to perform examinations, provide advice, and offer estimates for further diagnostics or treatment at Veterinary Specialists Aotearoa, in Auckland.
One of our own Pet Doctors veterinarians, Dr Simon Clark, has a strong interest in cruciate disease in dogs and cats. Injury to the cranial cruciate ligament is one of the most common causes of hind-limb lameness and discomfort in dogs. Simon can assess your pet’s cruciate stability, and he can offer three surgical options where appropriate:
- Extra-Capsular Ligature (Ex-Cap)
- OssAbility Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA)
- OssAbility Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy (TPLO)
He will work with you to determine which procedure, if any, is best suited to your pet’s needs.
There are additional procedures we perform in house, such as Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO). Simon also performs surgery for Medial Patella Luxation, offering either Lateral Imbrication or Trochlear Wedge Recession depending on the severity of the condition.
At Pet Doctors Tristram Street, we know how worrying it can be when your pet is in pain. Our team is here to help you understand the problem, explore your options, and choose the most appropriate and effective path forward, whether that’s treatment with our veterinarians or in partnership with skilled specialists.
If your pet is showing signs of lameness, stiffness, or discomfort, early assessment offers the best chance of a good outcome. Please get in touch to book an examination for your pet.
- Dr Richard Jerram, BVSc, Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons (Small Animal), Diplomate, European College of Veterinary Surgeons, Registered Specialist, Small Animal Surgery
- Dr Simon R. Clark BVSc MVM
