Small Animal Surgery

Orthopedic Conditions

Routine and Complex Fracture:

Trauma is the leading reason pets suffer bone fractures, and because dogs and cats rely on all four limbs for movement, many of these fractures must be repaired surgically. 

Degenerative Stifle (knee) Diseases: 

A cranial cruciate ligament tear is much like an ACL injury in people. Damage to this ligament—whether from tearing, overstretching, or gradual degeneration—leads to knee discomfort caused by joint instability, abnormal motion, and resulting inflammation. 

A patella luxation also referred to as a ‘dislocating kneecap,’ is a condition that involves the patella shifting from its normal alignment. Early clinical signs include a sudden cry and temporary non-weight-bearing, followed by normal gait once the patella repositions. As the disorder progresses, episodes increase in frequency, and the patella may remain luxated 

Elbow Dysplasia: 

Elbow dysplasia is a developmental problem in the elbow joint where the bones don’t fit together smoothly. This causes pain, swelling, and arthritis over time. It’s common in large breed dogs and usually results from abnormal growth of one or more parts of the elbow. 

Hip Dysplasia: 

Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition where the hip joint doesn’t form properly, causing the ball and socket to fit loosely. This leads to joint instability, pain, and arthritis as the dog ages. It is most common in large-breed dogs and can range from mild to severe. MSU offers hip replacement surgery for pets who are suitable candidates, helping restore mobility and improve quality of life.

Specialized Equipment and Technology

• Arthroscopic Surgery: At Mississippi State, we utilize advanced arthroscopy technology that enables minimally invasive visualization of joints. This allows us to examine, diagnose, and treat a wide range of conditions involving the elbow, shoulder, knee, and hip.
• Intraoperative Imaging (Fluoroscopy): With the use of a C-arm X-ray imaging system, we can repair bone fractures using minimally invasive methods, helping our patients regain comfortable limb function more quickly.
• 3-D Printing: Using 3-D printing, we create patient-specific bone models to plan and practice fracture repairs. This means faster surgeries, more precise repairs, and quicker recovery for your pet.

Services

Soft Tissue and Oncologic Surgery

Abdominal Surgery 
Expert care for all abdominal organs, including the stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, spleen, and pancreas. 

Head & Neck Surgery 
Treating ear, mouth, and nasal conditions in partnership with dermatology and otology specialists. 

Reproductive Surgery 
Cesareans, complicated spays/neuters, and reproductive procedures, often performed using minimally invasive techniques. 

Minimally Invasive Surgery 
Specialized laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgeries for faster recovery and smaller incisions. 

Surgical Oncology 
Tumor removal and diagnostic biopsies, performed by surgeons with extensive oncology experience. 

Thoracic Surgery 
Treating heart, lung, chest wall, and diaphragm conditions from trauma, disease, or congenital issues. 

Upper Airway Surgery 
Correcting breathing problems such as brachycephalic syndrome or laryngeal paralysis to improve quality of life. 

Wound Care & Reconstruction 
Repairing bite wounds, punctures, and skin loss to restore function and appearance.