Pet Orthopedic Surgery
Sheridan Animal Hospital offers advanced orthopedic care for dogs and cats in Sheridan, MI. Scroll down to learn more.
Advanced Orthopedic Care for Pets
At Sheridan Animal Hospital, we perform many types of orthopedic (bone) surgeries in our hospital. Dr. Wegener has a special interest in orthopedic surgery and has received advanced training at Ohio State University, in addition to over 13 years of clinical experience. Routinely Dr. Wegener repairs ruptured ACL ligaments and luxating patella in the knee along with femoral head and neck excision (FHO) for hip issues. We also maintain a comprehensive referral service for those surgeries that require even more specialized equipment and techniques.
ACL tears are repaired primarily by lateral suture fixation in small dogs and cats and in large dogs by the MRIT (Modified Retinacular Imbrication Technique or Lateral Fabellar Suture) technique. Please click here for more information about ACL repair.
Orthopedic Surgical Procedures We Offer
MRIT Surgery: A Great Alternative to TPLO for Your Dog’s Knee Injury
When dogs injure their cranial cruciate ligament (CCL)—similar to an ACL tear in humans—it can cause pain, limping, and long-term joint damage if left untreated. While TPLO surgery is one common option, Sheridan Animal Hospital is happy to offer MRIT (Modified Retinacular Imbrication Technique) as an excellent alternative for many dogs. MRIT is a less invasive surgery that can be just as effective for the right patients.
What Is MRIT?
MRIT surgery stabilizes your dog’s knee joint without cutting the bone. Instead, a strong orthopedic suture is placed around a small bone behind the knee and through the tibia (shinbone). This acts like a new ligament, helping your dog walk comfortably again. Before placing the suture, Dr. Wegner will gently open the knee to check for damage to the meniscus (a cushion-like structure inside the joint) and clean out any inflammation. If the meniscus is torn, we’ll carefully remove the damaged part. If it looks healthy, we may still release it slightly to help prevent future injury. For larger dogs, we may place sutures on both sides of the knee for extra support.
Why Choose MRIT Over TPLO?
- Less invasive – No bone cutting, which often means less discomfort and faster healing.
- Safe and effective – Especially for small and medium dogs, or large dogs with moderate activity levels.
- More affordable – MRIT generally costs less than TPLO surgery.
- Shorter surgery time – Which means less time under anesthesia.
What to Expect After Surgery
Your dog will need to rest and recover over the next 8 weeks. That means:
- Keeping your dog confined to a crate, pen, or small room
- Only taking short leash walks
- No running, jumping, or playing
Sheridan Animal Hospital will provide you instructions for caring for the incision and using a cone (E-collar) to prevent licking. Keeping the incision clean and protected is very important for healing. Some swelling is normal, and we may suggest warm or cold compresses, medications, and physical therapy to help your pup recover smoothly.
Femoral Head and Neck Ostectomy (FHO) Surgery in Dogs
A compassionate solution for chronic hip pain. Femoral Head and Neck Ostectomy (FHO) is a surgical procedure used to relieve chronic pain caused by disease, injury, or degeneration of the hip joint. It involves removing the femoral head—the “ball” portion of the ball-and-socket joint—to eliminate painful bone-on-bone contact.
After surgery by our doctor, your dog’s body naturally forms a “false joint” made of scar tissue and surrounding muscle. While this structure doesn’t replicate the full function of a normal hip joint, it allows for pain-free mobility and improved quality of life.
Sheridan Animal Hospital focuses on FHO in dogs weighing under 60 pounds, although it can be considered for larger dogs in specific cases. We would assess your pet and ensure we have recommended the best procedure for long-term relief.
When Is FHO Surgery Recommended?
FHO is typically considered when pain from hip problems can no longer be managed through medication, weight management, or physical therapy. Common reasons for FHO include:
- Hip Dysplasia: A congenital condition where the hip joint forms improperly, leading to joint instability, arthritis, and pain.
- Femoral Head Fractures: Traumatic injuries—such as falls or accidents—can fracture the femoral head. When healing isn’t possible or practical, surgical removal can restore comfort and function.
- Severe Arthritis or Joint Degeneration: Chronic joint disease can degrade the cartilage, leading to painful friction in the hip. FHO helps by removing the damaged area.
Benefits of FHO Surgery
FHO surgery can be life-changing for dogs dealing with hip pain. Key benefits include:
- Pain Relief: By removing the source of joint friction, your pet experiences immediate and lasting relief.
- Improved Mobility: Most dogs regain a strong ability to walk, run, and play after recovery. While range of motion may be somewhat limited, they typically return to a happy, active life with low-impact activities.
- No Implants Required: FHO doesn’t rely on artificial joint components, making it more accessible and cost-effective than hip replacement surgery.
Postoperative Recovery and Care
Your dog’s recovery will take several weeks and requires a dedicated plan to ensure the best outcome:
- Activity Restriction: For the first 8 weeks, your dog should have limited movement—leash walks only when outside and confinement to a small, non-slippery indoor area. Avoid stairs, rough play, and interactions with other pets.
- Pain Management: Medications will be prescribed to keep your dog comfortable during recovery. Always follow dosage instructions closely.
- Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: Gentle, guided exercises will begin around 2 weeks post-surgery to help build muscle, improve mobility, and speed healing. Your veterinarian will provide a tailored rehab plan.
Most pets begin to feel better soon after surgery because the pain from the damaged joint is gone. However, it’s important not to let them overuse the limb too early to avoid injury or setbacks.
Is FHO Right for Your Dog?
Femoral Head Ostectomy can provide significant relief and restore mobility for many dogs, particularly small- to medium-sized breeds. While it may not be suitable for every patient, FHO has allowed countless pets to move comfortably again and return to a higher quality of life.
If your dog has been struggling with hip pain, we’re here to help guide you through the best options for their care.
Have questions or want to schedule a consultation?
Contact us today—we’re here to support you and your pet every step of the way.
Leg Amputation in Dogs and Cats
A compassionate solution when mobility and comfort matter most. Amputation can sound like a daunting option, but for many dogs and cats, it’s a path to a pain-free, active life. Whether due to injury, disease, or congenital abnormalities, removing a severely damaged limb can dramatically improve your pet’s quality of life. Most pets adjust quickly and go on to live happy, healthy lives on three legs.
At Sheridan Animal Hospital, we approach every amputation case with empathy, surgical expertise, and a focus on your pet’s comfort and recovery. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
When Is Amputation Recommended?
Leg amputation is typically considered when a limb is:
- Severely injured or fractured beyond repair (e.g., from trauma or accidents)
- Affected by cancerous tumors such as osteosarcoma or soft tissue sarcomas
- Experiencing severe infection, non-healing wounds, or necrosis
- Damaged by nerve injuries that result in loss of use
- Congenitally malformed or causing chronic pain and mobility issues
Amputation may also be the best course of action when other treatments are no longer effective, or when preserving the limb would lead to ongoing pain or poor quality of life.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
Most pets recover remarkably well from amputation. Here’s what to expect:
- Hospital Stay: Most pets go home within 24–48 hours after surgery
- Recovery Time: Initial healing takes 10–14 days, with full adjustment to three-legged mobility over 4–6 weeks
- Activity Restriction: Leash walks only; limit jumping and stairs during early healing
- At-Home Care: Pain management, incision monitoring, and gradual return to activity
Physical therapy, when recommended, can aid in building strength and coordination. Our team will provide a customized recovery plan and remain available for any questions along the way.
Considering Amputation for Your Pet?
If your dog or cat is struggling with a painful or non-functional limb, amputation might be the most humane and effective option. Our team is here to provide clarity, comfort, and care as you explore the next best step for your pet.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or ask questions—we’re honored to be part of your pet’s healing journey.