Pelvic Fractures

Priced from $2,500 - $5,000
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What are pelvic fractures?

Any fracture or break in the pelvic bones is referred to as a pelvic fracture. They are most commonly seen in dogs or cats who have been hit by a vehicle. They can manifest as tearing of the Sacroiliac joint; this is where the wing of the ilium is torn away from the sacrum (a Sacroiliac dislocation), or as an ilium or ischium fracture (the wings of the pelvis). This may or may not include damage to the acetabulum (the socket the femur sits within).

Diagnosis methods

Lameness is the most common symptom of a pelvic fracture following a car accident. When we examine your pet, palpation can help us conclude a pelvic fracture has occurred if crunching is felt when the legs are gently manipulated. We then take an x-ray to confirm the presence of a fracture and see whether it needs to be surgically treated, as well as check for damage to other abdominal organs such as the bladder.

Treatment options

Treatment varies greatly from case to case. Some pets will simply need cage rest or limited activity. When the Sacroiliac joint dislocates, a screw (or screws) inserted through the ilium sacrum can be used to secure the bones. These aren't typically lengthy procedures, though a combination of bone plates and screws may be required if multiple fractures need to be treated. In these cases, the surgery will take much longer.

Cost

Surgery

Most pelvic fractures are treated for between $2,500 and $5,000, including x-rays, diagnosis, and treatment. Treatment at a referral centre can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the fracture complexity and the length of stay in the hospital.

Optional pre-anaesthetic blood test available for all surgeries (additional cost)

Aftercare

Recovery and aftercare

Animal pelvic fractures, like most fractures, are painful, so we send your pet home with a variety of pain relievers and antibiotics. Patience will be required, as it may take a week or more for your pet to begin moving comfortably, and you will be required to nurse and care for them at first. At referral centres, your pet will be hospitalised during the initial recovery period, and you may be charged $1,000 - $2,000 per day just for the hospitalisation. We have discovered that most pet owners prefer to keep their pets at home with them, and we happily support and accommodate this! We offer comprehensive care advice and are always available by email or phone.

Dr. Scot Plummer

Meet Dr. Scot Plummer

BVSC(HONS)

Dr Plummer has always had a deep love for animals and graduated from the University of Queensland with Honours. in his Bachelor of Veterinary Science. After the success of his Brisbane clinic, Dr Plummer has launched Melbourne Pet Surgery with the goal of lowering the cost of high-quality pet care for all Melburnians.

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