Alby’s Journey: HIF Surgery with ProVetSurg.

22 Aug

Alby's story began when his owners noticed him struggling with discomfort and mobility issues, particularly in his left forelimb. Concerned for his well-being, they sought out expert advice from the compassionate professionals at ProVetSurg who we work closely with at Pet People. After a thorough examination and diagnostic tests, it was determined that Alby had a humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF).

This condition affects a number of breeds however, it is more common in Spaniels, particularly, Springer Spaniels. A dog’s elbow consists of three bones that form a joint (articulate); the humerus, radius and ulna. The humeral condyle is the part of the humerus that forms the articular element of the elbow. A HIF can occur all the way or partly the way through the condyle.

Alby's owners were relieved to find themselves in the capable hands of the ProVetSurg team, a group of dedicated peripatetic veterinarians who are well-versed in advanced surgical techniques. Following Alby’s CT scan, a 3D model of the joint was made and the placement of the screw was mapped out.

The placement of a transcondylar screw involves a custom made 3D printed guide, designed and manufactured from your pet’s CT scan, which aids your pet’s surgeon in placing an appropriate screw across the HIF from one side of the humeral condyle to the other. The screw stabilises the HIF, preventing any motions that might previously have been occurring while your dog mobilised, in turn causing their lameness.

Alby underwent his surgery at Pet People with Dr Nicci Meadows and Dr Ian Stroud. The surgery went smoothly and he made a fantastic recovery. The x-rays taken post-operatively show the placement of the screw. To read more about Alby’s story and what his owners thought of the process click here.