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Sublaxation, Hip
Luxation and dislocation are roughly the same term when discussing joints. So subluxation and partial dislocation would be analogous as well. The most common cause of subluxation of the hip joint in young dogs is hip dysplasia. It is sometimes possible to identify the subluxation as early as 3 to 4 months of age with X-rays. It can take up to two years for there to be clear evidence of subluxation sufficient to diagnose hip dysplasia although the great majority of dogs with this problem show signs much earlier. In dogs with moderate subluxation, it is often possible to surgically alter the hip socket so that the luxation is corrected and reasonably normal hip function returned, using a procedure known as a triple pelvic osteotomy. This procedure requires considerable orthopedic surgical skill and equipment and is often done at referral centers and veterinary hospitals in the United States, rather than at a general practitioner's facility. It is also possible to replace the hip joint. In large breed dogs this can be done at an early age due to their size. Both of these procedures are expensive enough that many owners find themselves in the position of having to consider euthanasia when the problem is severe and funds for surgical repair low. There are some other causes of abnormal development of the hips. Infection with Neospora caninum causes muscular atrophy sufficient to prevent normal development of the hip joints in some dogs. Trauma can do this and there are probably other causes.
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Last edited 01/13/08