Alby’s Story.
Alby, a 6-year-old cocker spaniel was referred to us following a history of right foreleg lameness. Following an examination and CT, Alby was diagnosed with HIF (humeral intracondylar fissure).
Some breeds of dogs (Spaniels and French Bulldogs) are susceptible to incomplete formation of the humerus bone at the level of the elbow. A fissure can lead to pain but also weaken the bone, and make is susceptible to a very serious fracture of the elbow joint. Read on to hear how more about Alby’s surgery, treatment and recovery with Pet People Pro.
From CT to surgery
Following Alby’s CT scan, a 3D model was made of his elbow joint. A bespoke screw made specifically for Alby is then created using 3D printing- cool right? This allowed Dr Nicci from ProVet Surg to accurately determine where the transcondylar screw would be placed. This novel approach to veterinary imaging improved the accuracy of implantation as the joint can be fully visualised and the procedure planned in 3D before the surgery takes place.
Dr Nicci Meadows from ProVetSurg and our very own Dr Ian did Alby’s surgery and he’s making a fantastic recovery.
A word from Alby’s owners
“You guys have been the most understanding and welcoming practice I approached about Alby's diagnosis and I consulted several!
Once Alby's elbow issues were confirmed (and I had tried to deny them for a while) it transpired that I was seriously under-insured to cover the costs involved. So, as well as having serious concerns about the pros and cons of proceeding with surgery, I was suffering from financial anxiety too!
Ian's manner was kind and reassuring and I felt heard. It was evident also that he had Alby's best interests at heart. For a dog of just 6 years old, to not have had the treatment would have meant a lifetime of very little exercise and a lot of frustration. Instead, with Ian's support and understanding we decided to proceed in the most cost-effective way possible and for that we will always be grateful. It was also decided by surgeon Nicci that we should operate on both legs at once rather than have to endure 2 x procedures and 2 x recovery periods as other vets had advocated. This again was liberating for both Alby, myself and my family in terms of managing the recovery phase.
Now we are almost 3 x weeks post-surgery and the aftercare and service from Pet People has been as exemplary as their pre-operative care. I would have had to travel quite a distance and pay considerably more with other specialist orthopaedic practices I was referred to but Ian's approach was to bring the surgeon to us so the procedure happened on our doorstep at the East Sheen practice to minimise the inconvenience to both pet and client.
We are hoping that very soon Albs will be able to walk the many miles he and I were used to doing before his diagnosis. And quite frankly that day can't come quick enough for either of us. Thanks to Ian, Nicci and the whole Pet People team for working with me on all fronts.”- Sue
Alby leaving the clinic with his owner after his 6 week post op x-rays. He is continuing to make a good recovery. We wish you all the best for the future Alby!