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Atlas and His Severe Case of Hip Dysplasia
Atlas wasn't just another patient; he was a six-month-old Golden Retriever. Diagnosed with severe Hip Dysplasia early in life, Atlas was already struggling with the simple joys of being a puppy. When he was referred to the VSOS Orthopaedic team, his journey toward a "new beginning" truly began.
The "Sway and Click"
Atlas’s family first noticed something wasn't right when his typical puppy trot turned into a noticeable "hip sway." More concerning was a distinct "click" that could be felt when he walked. These weren't just growing pains; they were the early warning signs of a severe mechanical failure in his joints.
X-ray Results: A Spectrum of One
At VSOS, we analysed Atlas’s X-rays to determine the severity of his condition. On the spectrum of Hip Dysplasia, Atlas was at the extreme end.
While a healthy hip joint features approximately 50% alignment (overlap) between the ball and socket, Atlas’s results were startling:
Right Hip: Less than 5% alignment.
Left Hip: Approximately 1% alignment.
Essentially, Atlas was walking with almost no functional hip sockets, making every step a challenge of stability and comfort.
The Transformation: Surgery & Beyond
Atlas underwent a Total Hip Replacement (THR) on his right side. The goal of THR is to transition a dog from chronic pain to full activity levels, including running and jumping.
The results were nothing short of amazing:
Immediate Mobility: Atlas stunned the team by walking out of the clinic unaided on the very same day of his surgery.
Rapid Strength Gains: Only six weeks post-op, his thigh circumference on the repaired leg had grown by 50%, showing how quickly he began to trust his new hip.
Newfound Range: For the first time, Atlas could perform deep, natural stretches, a simple movement his dysplasia had previously stolen from him.
A Success Story in the Making
Atlas’s first surgery was a complete success. After a few months of recovery and enjoying his newfound mobility, he will return to VSOS to have his left hip repaired, ensuring his entire body is as strong as his spirit.
24/7 Emergency Care for your Precious Pets
While Atlas’s case was a planned specialist procedure, we know that pet emergencies don't keep business hours. Our team of talented veterinary specialists is on hand 24/7 to provide life-saving care at our state-of-the-art animal emergency hospital in the Sutherland Shire.
Whether it’s a complex orthopaedic referral or a midnight emergency, VSOS is here to provide specialist care that goes Beyond Possible.
