PATHOPHYSIOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS, AND TREATMENT OF CANINE HIP-DYSPLASIA

Dogs with hip dysplasia are commonly presented to veterinarians for ev aluation. Although many causes of the condition have been proposed, a definitive cause has not been established. The multifactorial nature o f canine hip dysplasia can confuse client education and management of the disease. The basic concept involved is the biomechanical imbalance between the forces on the coxofemoral joint and the associated muscle mass; the result is joint laxity in young, growing dogs. This laxity leads to incongruity; the eventual result is degenerative joint diseas e. Canine hip dysplasia can affect any breed but is most often reporte d in large and giant breeds. Understanding the pathophysiology and bio mechanics involved with this developmental disease is important in pro viding clients with diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic informatio n. The selection of treatment is influenced by the following factors: the age, health, and intended use of the patient; clinical signs; diag nostic findings; the availability of treatment; and the financial cons traints of the owner. This article discusses the current concepts conc erning the pathophysiology and biomechanics of canine hip dysplasia an d outlines diagnostic and therapeutic options. The objective of the ar ticle is to provide practitioners with a reference for decision making and client education.