Orthopedic Surgery Service
The Orthopedic Surgery Service at Penn Vet is a progressive, dynamic service that offers the “cutting edge” for treatment a variety of orthopedic conditions. We perform the latest surgical treatments for joint conditions of the elbow, shoulders, hips and knees. These range from minimally invasive arthroscopy to total joint replacement. We currently perform total hip replacement using both cemented and state-of-the-art cementless systems, depending on the needs of the patient. We also are one of the few institutions developing a program in total knee replacement. We have one of the most active emergency services in the country and have the latest systems for fracture repair using plates, external skeletal fixation and interlocking nail. We also perform neurologic surgery on both an emergency and elective basis, depending on the condition.
The Orthopedic Surgery service receives cases from clinic appointments on Tuesday and Thursday and performs surgery on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Cases are seen through the clinic in the morning, and diagnostic tests are performed that day. The majority of cases are then scheduled for surgery the following day. The Orthopedic Surgery service also receives cases transferred from the Neurology, Emergency, and Medicine services. Cases transferred from these services generally receive surgery on the basis of medical priority. Emergency surgery is available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Surgery is performed on the basis of medical priority.
The Penn Vet Orthopedic Service is a referral service only. Owners must have their local veterinarian call Marta Bates, the Orthopedic Referral Coordinator, and leave a phone referral to schedule any appointment. All referrals will be responded to within a 24-hour period. Any pets with fractures or paralysis should not wait for referral and should be brought to the Emergency Service as soon as possible.