Simmy's Trust Fund

Glenfield Veterinary Clinic: I could not detect any bony changes in either of the joints examined. This would suggest that soft tissue structures are responsible for the pain associated with the joints. It is possible that the prosthesis left over from the repair of the coxofemoral luxation could be causing some ongoing discomfort. I am not familiar with the long term effects of this operation or whether removing this will improve the joints function. I would recommend referral to an orthopaedic surgeon for a second opinion on this issue and the source of the shoulder pain. Regardless there are no signs of developing osteoarthritis and certainly no evidence to support a salvage operation such as a femoral head osteotomy (chopping the head of the femur). Anti-inflammatories and careful exercise management may manage this problem. Since hip dislocation is associated with an increase risk of the development of osteoarthritis it would be wise to keep Simba's body weight down and to start a nutritional supplements that support joint health.