Total Elbow Replacement – TER

Degenerative joint disease in the elbow can affect dogs of all breeds and sizes, and while there are pharmaceutical and surgical options, at Azzore we are proud to provide the newest and least invasive surgical options for the correction of elbow disease with proven results for full function recovery and relief from joint pain.

TATE canine total elbow replacement is an innovative surgical procedure that provides relief from elbow dysplasia and degenerative joint disease in dogs. Developed specifically to promote the accuracy of surgical placement and reduce the likelihood of post-operative luxation (failure of the joint to stay properly aligned), TATE total elbow is a clinically effective surgical procedure with low complication rates and high probability for full recovery of joint use and range of motion.

Symptoms:

Elbow Dysplasia is an inherited disease that primarily affects large and giant breeds, such as Bernese Mountain Dogs, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers.

Symptoms can include:

- lame or abnormal gait

- holding the elbows out or tucked in

- less playful

- slow to rise and tire easily

Procedure:

The TATE total elbow replacement is truly a breakthrough in canine surgical revision. Many other methods have attempted and failed to effectively replace the elbow joint and provide relief from pain. Additionally, return to function is relatively rapid, with full ingrowth to the bone generally occurring by 12 weeks post surgery. The procedure itself involves the actual removal and replacement of the pieces of the humeral and radioulnar bones that come into contact when the joint is in motion. The implants are made of the most biocompatible materials available which virtually eliminates the risks of infection and implant rejection.

Actual cartridge implant used for TATE total elbow replacement.

After Care:

As with any orthopedic surgery, owner compliance with exercise restriction plays a crucial role in the healing and recovery process. This is especially important in the case of total joint replacement, and activity restrictions will need to be observed for the entire recovery period. Since this is a relatively new procedure, we encourage you to call our office with any questions you may have about TATE total elbow replacement. We are proud to offer this service and finally be able to provide relief for dogs suffering from elbow arthritis and dysplasia.

Hospitalization:

- Your pet will need to stay overnight one night and will need to be picked up during our regular business hours the day after surgery. There will be staff overnight to monitor your animal.

- When you get your pet home, place your pet in a cool/warm (season dependent), quiet and dark room. If you leave your pet alone, he/she will sleep and be comfortable. You can increase your pet’s anxiety by doting. Your pet will have adequate medication for pain so you do not need to worry about discomfort.

Medication:

– Cephalexin 500mg. Give two capsules orally three times per day for 10 days.

- Give Previcox as directed on the label until gone.

Rechecks:

- Your pet should be rechecked in 7-14 days by Dr. Dew. Please call 479-964-4300 to schedule this appointment.

- Radiographs will need to be taken in 16 weeks to assess healing. There will be a charge for this appointment, as it is not included in the surgery price.

- If at any time during the healing process you have a question or concern, Dr. Dew will be happy to recheck your pet, just call for an appointment.

Exercise Restriction:

- For the 3 weeks your pet should be confined to an area with a non-slip floor covering.

- During this time she should be limited to short leash walks in the yard to urinate and defecate.

- After 3 weeks, you may gradually begin to increase the length of her leash walks, doubling the length weekly.

- Do not allow your pet to jump on/off furniture, decks or car seats from this point forward.

Physical Therapy:

- Post-operative physical therapy after release from the hospital is required for the best long-term outcome.

- Typical treatments include stretches and joint mobilizations to:

- Restore flexibility

- Decrease swelling

- Promote healing

- Restore and strengthen muscle tissues

- Passive Range of Motion (PROM) exercises will be demonstrated at the first recheck exam

- Swimming is highly recommended and can be started 6 weeks post-op.

Other Information:

- When you get your pet home, offer her a small amount of water. If she drinks it and does not vomit, offer twice the original amount

- 2 hours later if no vomiting has occurred, offer ¼ of the amount of food in a normal meal

- If your pet eats and no vomiting occurs in a 2-hour time period, then you may resume normal alimentation

- Please call Dr. Dew’s office or your regular veterinarian if your pet does not drink within the first 6 hours of being home or if vomiting occurs

- The transdermal patch used for pain relief can cause constipation. Feed (1) can of tuna in oil daily for 4 days along with her regular food to prevent constipation.