Pet Orthopedic Surgery in Kalamazoo, MI
Our team at Eighth Street Veterinary Care performs orthopedic surgery for dogs and cats, with particular experience in cruciate ligament repair. We see patients from Kalamazoo, Oshtemo, Plainwell, Portage, and well beyond who come to us specifically for this procedure.
What Is Pet Orthopedic Surgery?
Orthopedic surgery covers procedures involving a pet’s bones, joints, and connective tissue, including ligament and joint repair. Cruciate ligament injuries, common in active dogs, are one of the conditions we see most often.
Dr. Bruce Withers has built a regional reputation for his cruciate repair work using the lateral suture technique. Referring clinics throughout the region send patients to us for this procedure, and some pet owners travel from as far as Indiana for his expertise.
What to Expect at a Surgical Visit
Our veterinary team walks you through every step, from diagnosis to recovery planning. Here’s what a typical orthopedic procedure includes:
- Diagnostic exam and imaging: Our team evaluates the joint using a physical exam and X-rays to confirm the diagnosis.
- Pre-surgical bloodwork: We confirm your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.
- Surgical planning: Dr. Withers reviews the approach and discusses it with you beforehand.
- Anesthesia and monitoring: Our team monitors vital signs closely throughout the procedure.
- The procedure itself: Dr. Withers performs the repair using the lateral suture technique.
- Recovery monitoring: Your pet rests in our care until they’re stable enough to go home.
- At-home care instructions: We send you home with clear guidance on activity restrictions, rehabilitation, and follow-up timing.
Why Orthopedic Care Matters
A cruciate ligament injury can affect a pet’s mobility and comfort if left untreated. Addressing it surgically may help support a return to more comfortable movement over time.
Recovery is a process, and outcomes vary by pet, so our team sets realistic expectations and stays involved throughout rehabilitation, not just the day of surgery.
Regional Expertise in Cruciate Repair
Dr. Withers’ experience with lateral suture cruciate repair has made Eighth Street Veterinary Care a destination for this procedure, with both referring veterinarians and pet owners seeking him out directly. Our team supports every patient with the same close monitoring, from pre-surgical workup through recovery.
If imaging points to a soft tissue concern alongside the joint injury, our Pet Soft Tissue Surgery page covers that related care.
Pet Orthopedic Surgery FAQs
What is cruciate ligament surgery?
It's a surgical repair for a torn or damaged cruciate ligament in the knee, a common injury in active dogs. Dr. Withers performs this repair using the lateral suture technique.
How long is recovery after orthopedic surgery?
Recovery varies by pet and procedure, often involving several weeks of restricted activity and a gradual return to normal movement. Our team provides a recovery plan specific to your pet.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Withers for cruciate repair?
No referral is required, though many of our orthopedic patients do come to us through a referring veterinarian. Pet owners are also welcome to reach out directly.
Trusted Orthopedic Care Worth the Trip
At Eighth Street Veterinary Care, we understand why pet owners and referring veterinarians alike seek out Dr. Withers for cruciate repair. His hands-on experience with the lateral suture technique, paired with our team’s careful monitoring through every stage of recovery, is why families from Kalamazoo and well beyond trust us with this procedure.
