ORTHOPEDIC SURGICAL RISKS

All orthopaedic surgical procedures (involving joints and bones) carry specific potential complications in addition to general surgical risks. These include haemorrhage, infection, pain, delayed healing, implant-related issues, and procedure-related or inadvertent injury.

The consequences of a pet experiencing one or more of these complications can vary significantly depending on the type and location of the surgery, the extent of the condition being treated, and the overall health of the animal. Pets Health Veterinarians are experienced in identifying, minimising, and managing these risks as much as practically possible.

Despite meticulous planning, sterile technique, and appropriate aftercare, complications may still occur, especially in patients who are very young, elderly, or who have concurrent medical conditions. Even healthy pets can occasionally experience adverse outcomes following orthopaedic procedures.

Haemorrhage

Orthopaedic surgery can result in bleeding from bone, surrounding soft tissue, or blood vessels in the surgical field. While bleeding is usually controlled during the procedure, in rare cases significant haemorrhage can occur. This is managed with appropriate surgical techniques, fluid therapy, and careful intraoperative monitoring. Severe or unexpected bleeding is uncommon but may require emergency intervention.

Infection

Orthopaedic procedures carry an increased risk of infection due to the involvement of bone and the use of surgical implants (e.g., plates, screws, pins). Infections may occur superficially at the wound site or deeper in the bone (osteomyelitis) or around implants. Strict sterile technique and perioperative antibiotics help minimise this risk. However, post-operative infections may require prolonged antibiotic treatment, implant removal, or revision surgery, and in severe cases, can compromise limb function or overall health.

Healing Complications

Fractures or osteotomies (surgical cuts to bone) may heal slowly or fail to heal altogether, especially in cases with poor blood supply, infection, excessive motion at the repair site, or underlying health conditions. This may require prolonged immobilisation, implant revision, or additional surgical intervention.

Implant Complications

Implants used to stabilise fractures or joint repairs may shift, loosen, break, or irritate surrounding tissues. Implant failure can result from excessive activity during recovery, infection, or delayed healing. In some cases, a second surgery may be required to remove or replace implants, or to address associated issues.

Joint Complications

Orthopaedic surgeries involving joints (such as cruciate ligament repair or joint luxation surgery) may lead to long-term complications such as joint stiffness, reduced range of motion, arthritis, or cartilage damage. Rehabilitation and controlled exercise are essential to optimise joint recovery and function.

Procedure Related or Inadvertent Injury

Accidental injury to surrounding structures - including nerves, blood vessels, or adjacent tissues - can occur during orthopaedic procedures. While uncommon, the extent and impact of such injuries depend on the location and severity, and may lead to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent functional deficits.

NOTE: The risks outlined above are not exhaustive. While every effort is made to minimise complications, other unexpected issues may arise.