Vet just rang....the ortho says she needs surgery ASAP, thinks it's OCD. But will discuss further on Tuesday when I go down. Has anyone any idea what he'll do to my baby dog??
Oh Jo, I'm so sorry to hear the news that he thinks it may be OCD (which I've had to look up on the internet ). Is there any chance you can speak to the Ortho about what he's planning to do? I know mine was very good and answered all emails within an hour or so of me sending. If not can you speak to your vet for more information? Is the appointment on Tuesday a consultation or is he planning to run additional tests? Sorry it seems like a barrage of questions but if you're like me the brain went out of the window when I got the call about Juno's early diagnosis. Try to remember she can have a pretty normal life, she's,just more special than you thought. I'm attaching a couple of links which give a little more insight into what the Ortho may be considering http://www.fitzpatrickreferrals.co.uk/orthopaedic/elbow-osteochondritis-dissecans-ocd/ http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_dg_osteochondrosis?page=show Sending big hugs for you and Juno sends licks to Piper
She just said she's for surgery Tuesday?? Oh god my heads fried....I think he'll MRI, what did Juno have done?
Sorry to hear this. I know it's such a shock to find out there is something wrong that needs surgery. But the main thing is that you have got prompt medical attention for your dog - you are doing the very best thing. I hope you get more answers, and more clarity about what you'll have to do soon. Wishing you and Piper the very best. Try not to worry too much, I know that's so much easier said than done - modern vet treatment is fantastic and hopefully Piper can get some effective treatment and be back enjoying herself.
jojo I had an appointment with the Ortho to discuss what he had seen on the x-rays and discussed options. It was perfectly clear that she was going to have surgery but there was some doubt as to whether she needed it one elbow or both so we agreed on the MRI so he was very clear on the extent of surgery. At the consultation we also went through all the details of life after the surgery both short term and long term. The MRI was money very well spent as we knew straight away when we collected Juno at the clinic that it was just her right elbow that was affected and her left was perfectly normal despite the left being the one she limped on most. It was also clear from the MRI that while she had fragmentation of the coronoid process her elbow also showed malformation. I'm so glad I went for the MRI first as at least it prevented unnecessary surgery in an elbow even if it delayed the surgery by a week, but with Juno on restricted exefcise I didn't think the delay would be significant to recovery. I know what you mean about your head feeling fried. You remember lots of questions you wanted to ask, at the most inconvenient of times and then you forget them again when you have an opportunity to ask. It may be worth phoning again tomorrow to query what you need to prepare for on Tuesday. Is she to be starved from Monday night? can she have water etc. etc. You may be able to get a few more answers. Stupid though it may sound, I blamed myself for Juno's elbow problems that it was something I had or hadn't done. Then I raged that it was so unfair and why my little girl. Then I realised that I wasn't helping Juno and had to sort myself out and focus on her. One thing I do know is that you and Piper will come through this challenge together and she will enjoy a long, happy life with you.
I know this a big shock and very distressing. Really feel for you. You've got good vets in your corner though, and things will end up fine for your girl. Wise words from MaccieD....
Sorry to hear this! Such a shock I am sure! Hugs from here, I haven't gone through but many forum members have and they will be giving you wise advice and great support.
Hope all goes well on Tuesday. It's a shock to have the diagnosis, but so much can be done now. It will be a difficult time keeping Piper calm after the op, but in a few months she'll be a new dog.
jojo Hope all goes well tomorrow for your appointment with the ortho specialist. Will be thinking of you. xx
