Cat and Dog Orthopedic Surgery in Glen Mills, PA

A torn ligament, fracture, unstable joint, or developmental orthopedic condition can quickly affect your pet’s comfort and mobility.

At Pinnacle Veterinary Specialists, we provide cat and dog orthopedic surgery for conditions affecting the bones, joints, ligaments, and supporting structures. Our board-certified veterinary surgeons in Glen Mills, PA evaluate each patient individually and recommend treatment based on the condition, your pet’s needs, and long-term function.

From TPLO surgery and fracture repair to joint stabilization and other orthopedic procedures, our team provides advanced surgical care with close monitoring and clear communication throughout recovery.

If your veterinarian has recommended an orthopedic consultation, contact us at (610) 477-8797 or online to request an appointment.

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When Should My Pet See an Orthopedic Surgeon?

Your primary veterinarian may recommend referral to a veterinary surgeon after diagnosing an orthopedic condition or when advanced evaluation is needed.

Signs that may accompany orthopedic injuries or disease include:

  • Persistent or severe limping
  • Refusal to put weight on a leg
  • Sudden loss of normal mobility
  • Swelling around a limb or joint
  • Difficulty standing or lying down
  • Reluctance to climb stairs, run, or jump
  • An abnormal position or appearance of a limb
  • Pain when a particular area is touched or moved
  • Mobility that does not improve with initial treatment

Sudden inability to use a limb, significant trauma, severe pain, or an obviously abnormal limb position may require prompt veterinary attention. Pinnacle Veterinary Specialists also provides 24/7 emergency and critical care when an orthopedic injury occurs unexpectedly.

What Pet Orthopedic Procedures Do We Perform?

The appropriate treatment depends on which structure is affected, how severe the condition is, and factors such as your pet's age, size, activity level, and overall health.

Our orthopedic surgical capabilities include:

TPLO Surgery for Dogs

A cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL, injury is one of the most common causes of knee instability in dogs. The CCL performs a function similar to the ACL in a person's knee. Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) changes the mechanics of the knee so the joint can remain stable while bearing weight without relying on the damaged ligament.

TPLO is commonly considered for dogs with partial or complete CCL tears. Your surgeon will evaluate your dog's knee, activity level, anatomy, and other factors when determining whether TPLO is the appropriate treatment.

Fracture Repair

Broken bones vary considerably in location, complexity, and severity. Some fractures may require surgical stabilization to restore proper alignment and give the bone the stability it needs to heal. Our surgeons assess the fracture and surrounding tissues and determine the surgical approach best suited to the individual injury.

Patellar Luxation Surgery

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap moves outside its normal position within the groove of the femur. Depending on the severity, affected pets may occasionally skip on a leg, limp, or develop progressive joint discomfort. When surgery is recommended, the goal is to improve alignment and stability within the knee.

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Additional Orthopedic Conditions We Treat

Pinnacle's surgeons also evaluate and treat a variety of other orthopedic injuries and conditions, including:

  • Joint dislocations: Surgery may be needed when a joint cannot remain properly positioned or has sustained significant structural damage.
  • Hip dysplasia: Some pets with abnormal hip development may benefit from surgical treatment depending on their age, anatomy, symptoms, and degree of joint disease.
  • Osteochondrosis: Abnormal development of cartilage within a joint can cause pain and lameness, particularly in young, growing dogs.
  • Traumatic orthopedic injuries: Falls, vehicle accidents, and other forms of trauma can cause fractures, joint injuries, or multiple musculoskeletal injuries that require surgical evaluation.
  • Other ligament and joint injuries: Our surgeons assess orthopedic conditions individually to determine whether surgical stabilization or another approach offers the best path forward.

What Happens During My Pet’s Orthopedic Surgery Consultation?

Your appointment gives the surgical team an opportunity to evaluate your pet's condition and explain what treatment may involve.

Depending on the reason for referral, the consultation may include:

  • Reviewing your pet's medical records and previous imaging
  • Performing an orthopedic examination
  • Identifying which joint, bone, ligament, or structure is affected
  • Recommending additional diagnostic imaging, such as a CT scan, when needed
  • Discussing whether surgery is appropriate
  • Explaining the recommended procedure
  • Reviewing expected recovery and activity restrictions
  • Answering questions about pain management and follow-up care

If surgery is recommended, we will help you understand why, what the procedure is intended to accomplish, and what you can expect throughout your pet's recovery.

What Does Recovery After Cat and Dog Orthopedic Surgery Involve?

Recovery varies by procedure, but many pets require a period of restricted activity followed by a gradual return to normal movement.

Postoperative care may include:

  • Restricted activity
  • Controlled leash walks
  • Incision monitoring
  • Prescribed medications
  • Follow-up examinations
  • Repeat X-rays when needed
  • Gradual increases in activity
  • Rehabilitation recommendations

If your pet is limping or struggling with mobility, contact us at (610) 477-8797 or online to request an appointment.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Cat and Dog Orthopedic Surgery

Does every torn CCL require TPLO surgery?

No. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury along with your dog’s size, age, anatomy, activity level, and overall health. Your surgeon will determine whether TPLO is the best option.

How long does orthopedic surgery recovery take?

Recovery time varies by procedure. Many orthopedic surgeries require several weeks of restricted activity followed by a gradual return to normal movement.

Will my pet need X-rays after surgery?

Some orthopedic procedures require follow-up X-rays to evaluate healing or implant positioning. Your surgeon will let you know if postoperative imaging is needed.

Can cats have orthopedic surgery?

Yes. Cats may require orthopedic surgery for fractures, joint injuries, luxations, and other conditions affecting mobility.

What is the difference between orthopedic and neurologic surgery?

Orthopedic surgery treats bones, joints, ligaments, and related structures. Conditions involving the spinal cord, nerves, or brain are generally managed through neurology or neurosurgery.