Eastern Carolina Veterinary Medical Center
Total Hip Replacement (THR)
What is Total Hip Replacement?
Total Hip Replacement (THR) is a surgical procedure that replaces the painful, diseased hip joint with a prosthetic ball-and-socket joint. By removing the damaged joint surfaces and restoring a smooth, functional hip, THR is designed to provide long-term comfort and improved mobility—often allowing pets to return to a more normal activity level.
Signs to Request a Consult
If your dog is showing any of the following, it may be time to schedule a surgical evaluation:
Limping or lameness in one or both hind legs
Difficulty rising, jumping, using stairs, or getting into the car
Decreased activity, endurance, or willingness to play
Stiffness, especially after rest
“Bunny hopping” gait while running
Ongoing discomfort despite rest, medications, or other conservative care
When THR is Commonly Recommended
A Total Hip Replacement consultation may be recommended for pets experiencing pain and/or loss of function related to conditions such as:
Hip dysplasia with secondary arthritis
Severe hip arthritis that no longer responds well to medical management
Certain traumatic hip injuries (including luxations that cannot be maintained after reduction)
Specific fractures involving the femoral head or neck where repair is not ideal
Avascular necrosis of the femoral head leading to arthritis
During your consult, our team will evaluate your pet’s mobility and comfort, review imaging (or recommend additional diagnostics if needed), and discuss whether THR is the best option or if another approach may be more appropriate.
How to Request a Consult
To be seen for Total Hip Replacement evaluation at ECVMC, please request a referral from your primary care veterinarian. Once we receive your referral and medical records, our team will contact you to schedule a surgical consultation.
If you have questions about the referral process, please call us at (910) 790-1070 and we’ll guide you on what information is needed for scheduling.
