Yesterday, my rambunctious, three year old yellow lab mix Addison underwent a bilateral elbow arthroscopy procedure. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure orthopedic surgeons use to visualize, diagnose and treat problems inside a joint. Addie was experiencing intermittent lameness that became more severe after exercise. Upon physical exam and joint palpation with Dr. Garrett Levin, DACVS it was suggested to move forward with radiographs and a CT scan to determine if there was elbow dysplasia and bone abnormalities. The CT report confirmed elbow dysplasia and elbow arthroscopy was performed on both elbow joints. A fragmented medial coronoid process was removed from both elbows which is like having a rock in your shoe! Addie is doing great the day after surgery, she is comfortable and walking well. She will continue to be on exercise restriction for 8 weeks and is looking forward to the 4 week mark so she can get in the pool for some exercise!
Even though I see animals undergo procedures everyday I was still a nervous dog mom throughout the procedure. Being a ‘client’ for a day helped remind me what it’s like to be on the other side, which is sometimes easy to forget because treatments and procedures become so routine. As always, I was amazed at the level of support and compassion given to me by my co-workers. We are all animal lovers and pet parents so even though much of what we see is routine, we can always empathize with the stress of having a sick pet. I am fortunate that Addison will make a full recovery (she is contently munching on a bone in the office right now) and has many hikes, walks and runs ahead of her.
Whitney Durivage, hospital manager at BEVS
