Orthopaedic Conditions & Referral

Diagnosis, treatment planning and specialist referral when required

Orthopaedic conditions affect the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles that allow pets to move comfortably.

Limping, stiffness, difficulty rising, reluctance to jump, reduced exercise tolerance and changes in mobility are common reasons pets are presented to our hospital.

At Bankstown Veterinary Hospital, we regularly diagnose and manage orthopaedic conditions in dogs and cats. Through examination, digital radiography and other diagnostic testing, we can identify many orthopaedic problems and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

Common Orthopaedic Conditions

We commonly diagnose and manage conditions including:

  • Arthritis (osteoarthritis)

  • Cruciate ligament disease

  • Patella luxation (dislocating kneecaps)

  • Hip dysplasia

  • Elbow dysplasia

  • Fractures

  • Joint injuries

  • Tendon and ligament injuries

  • Growth-related orthopaedic conditions

  • Back and spinal pain

Some conditions can be managed medically, while others may require surgery.

Diagnosing Orthopaedic Problems

Accurate diagnosis is the first step towards successful treatment.

Your pet's assessment may include:

  • Orthopaedic examination

  • Neurological examination

  • Digital radiography (X-rays)

  • Sedation where required for imaging

  • Blood testing when indicated

  • Referral for advanced imaging such as CT or MRI where appropriate

Once a diagnosis has been reached, we can discuss the available treatment options and likely outcomes.

When Is Specialist Orthopaedic Surgery Required?

Some orthopaedic conditions are best treated by specialist veterinary surgeons with advanced training and specialised equipment.

Examples may include:

  • Cruciate ligament surgery

  • Fracture repair

  • Patella luxation surgery

  • Joint reconstruction procedures

  • Complex spinal surgery

  • Total hip replacement

Where specialist surgery is likely to provide the best outcome for your pet, we will discuss referral options and help coordinate your pet's ongoing care.

Working With Specialist Surgeons

If referral is required, we can assist with:

  • Initial diagnosis and work-up

  • Digital radiographs and records

  • Referral arrangements

  • Communication with the specialist hospital

  • Post-operative monitoring

  • Suture removal where appropriate

  • Long-term arthritis and mobility management

Our goal is to ensure your pet receives the right treatment from the right team at the right time.

Arthritis & Mobility Management

Not every orthopaedic problem requires surgery.

Many pets benefit from:

  • Weight management

  • Pain relief medication

  • Exercise modification

  • Joint supplements

  • Rehabilitation therapies

  • Ongoing monitoring

Early intervention often helps maintain comfort and quality of life for longer.

Is Your Pet Limping?

If your pet is limping, struggling to rise, slowing down on walks or showing signs of discomfort, an orthopaedic assessment may help identify the underlying cause.

Contact Bankstown Veterinary Hospital to arrange a consultation with one of our veterinarians.