Hemipelvectomy in dogs and cats: technique overview, variations, and description.

OBJECTIVE

To review and describe the surgical procedure of hemipelvectomy in dogs and cats.

STUDY

DESIGN

Descriptive report.

ANIMALS: Dogs and cats.

METHODS

Anatomic surgical technique description and PubMed literature search.

RESULTS

Hemipelvectomy is an involved, aggressive surgical procedure that must be tailored to each specific clinical case. Thorough preoperative assessment and planning, as well as considerations for closure options are critical for a successful outcome. Although outcome data are scant, the prognosis after hemipelvectomy correlates to the underlying disease process. Proactive postoperative analgesia and slower return to function are important factors in patient management.

CONCLUSIONS

With careful pre- and postoperative planning, hemipelvectomy can be used successfully in dogs and cats.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Hemipelvectomy in the dog and cat is a viable treatment option for selected neoplastic and traumatic conditions.