Osteosarcoma is one of the most common types of bone cancer in pets, and it can feel overwhelming. For many years, one potential treatment option has been amputation followed by chemotherapy.
While this method can help a dog survive and improve its life, amputation is still a major decision. This is where limb-sparing surgery for osteosarcoma comes in.
This advanced veterinary procedure involves removing the cancerous part of the bone while preserving the leg itself. To put it simply, instead of taking away the entire limb, only the bad part is removed and reconstructed.
With this procedure, dogs can be free of osteosarcoma and continue to walk, run, and play on all four legs.
What Is Limb Sparing Surgery in Dogs?
At its core, limb-sparing surgery is an orthopedic procedure designed to fight cancer while keeping a dog’s leg intact. It’s also known as limb salvage surgery. We do this by removing the part of the bone affected by osteosarcoma and a small section of healthy tissue.
The gap left behind is then rebuilt using special techniques.
This procedure is most often used when osteosarcoma affects the distal radius, but it can also be an option for other parts. Ultimately, there are three main goals of limb-sparing surgery in dogs.
Remove the Cancer
Relieve Pain
Preserve Mobility
This approach is especially valuable for dogs who might struggle with amputation, such as seniors, giant breeds, and those with arthritis.
How to Know if Dogs Can Have Limb Sparing Surgery?
While it’s a good option, not all dogs can have this type of surgery. The complexity of this procedure means that our vets must carefully evaluate each type of patient.
Tumor Location
Limb-sparing surgery works best when the tumor is in the distal radius (above the wrist at the front leg) or distal ulna (between the paw and elbow at the front leg). These areas are common sites for osteosarcoma and are structurally easier to reconstruct.
However, tumors in other bones, like the femur or areas close to the knee and hip joints, can be more challenging. Limb-sparing may not be suitable in these areas.
Tumor Size and Extent
The surgery is recommended when the tumor comprises less than 1/3 of the bone’s length. If the cancer has spread too far along the bone or deep into muscles and tissues, then limb-sparing may not be suitable.
Plus, if the tumor has metastasized, then surgery may not be recommended.
Overall Health
Dogs that are potential candidates for the limb-sparing procedure will need to be healthy enough to handle the anesthesia, surgery, and recovery process. Older pets with severe conditions of the heart, lungs, and other areas may not be strong candidates.
How Is Limb Sparing Surgery in Dogs Done?
The procedure is straightforward, with just the reconstruction technique having unique differences. Our resident expert in orthopedic surgery, Dr. Sarabjit Singh, will be the one leading the surgery.
Planning and Checkup
Before a single incision is made, we’ll conduct a thorough checkup to prepare our surgical plan. Our vets will conduct physical exams and laboratory tests for your dog. Plus, we’ll make use of X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to map out the exact location of the tumor.
The information we collect from this phase allows us to determine the best possible reconstruction technique.
Preparation and Anesthesia
Next up, we prepare the surgical area and your dog. Our vets will keep them under general anesthesia, clip the fur around the affected limb, and sterilize the area. This makes sure the incision site is clean.
Removing the Tumor
When everything is prepared and ready, we will proceed to remove the tumor. We use specialized tools to cut the tumor out and a portion of healthy tissue and bone. This margin is important as it reduces the chance of leftover cancer cells.
Reconstructing the Limbs
At this point, there will be a gap in the leg where the diseased bone used to be. This is where the limb-sparing surgery techniques differ. Several methods exist, and the choice will depend on your dog’s size, the tumor, and our vets’ opinion.
Allograft. A piece of bone from a dog donor is matched to the size of the portion of the bone removed. The graft we obtained will be fit and secured into the bone. This will fuse into the bone to restore natural shape.
Metal Prosthesis. A custom-made metal implant will be used to bridge the gap. It’s anchored on the remaining parts of the bone with screws or bone cement. This provides immediate structural strength and helps dogs bear weight.
Autograft. Here, our vets will use another part of your dog’s own healthy bone, often a healthy ulna. This will be repositioned to fill the gap and fixed with plates. Healing is usually quicker with this method.
Bone Transport Osteogenesis. This advanced approach eliminates the need for grafts and implants altogether. We use an external fixator on the leg to move healthy bone slowly. As the bone moves, new bone will grow behind it.
Stabilization and Closure
After the procedure, it's time to clean up. Our vets will stabilize your dog and clean the incision area to avoid any complications. Any finishing touches will be done.
Recovery and Hospitalization
After the limb-sparing surgery, we will keep your dog in for about 5 to 7 days for recovery. Our vets will monitor your dog's limb stability, manage pain, and watch for potential infections. Chemotherapy will be scheduled, as it's required for the entire treatment process for osteosarcoma.
Pros and Cons of Limb Sparing Surgery in Dogs
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Preserves the dog’s limbs, allowing dogs to maintain complete mobility and comfort. | Has an increased risk of post-op complications, such as graft failure, tumor recurrence, and infections. |
Maintains quality of life, especially for dogs with arthritis or hip problems. | Lengthy recovery period, with dogs needing weeks to months of restricted activity, checkups, and physical therapy. |
Removes the tumor and eliminates pain along with chemotherapy. | More expensive because of the advanced surgical skills, techniques, and equipment needed. |
Easier for families to decide on rather than amputation, which is a very big decision. | Not suitable for every dog, as it’s only often done for dogs with osteosarcoma in the distal radius and ulna. |
Recovery and Aftercare After Limb Sparing Surgery
After your dog has been discharged from our vet clinic, we will advise you to be at the forefront of its recovery.
Restricted Physical Activity
When at home, make sure to limit your dog’s movement to help the area heal. Strict rest is critical for about 6 to 8 weeks, but it can be more. We will ask you to only have short, controlled leash walks and use a harness to help support your dog.
Medications
We’ll prescribe several pet medications, such as pain relievers and antibiotics. Our vets will provide detailed steps on how and when to give them. These are important for making recovery smooth and relatively comfortable.
Rehabilitation and Monitoring
Part of the process is working with our physiotherapists to help your dog regain strength and mobility. During this time, it’s also important to schedule regular checkups with our orthopedic specialists. This includes X-rays and other tests to assess your dog’s condition.
“When a dog’s body is strong, their spirit shines even brighter. Let’s keep it that way.”
- Dr. Sarabjit Singh
Final Thoughts
Facing a diagnosis of osteosarcoma in your dog is never easy, and the best step you can take is to talk it out with us. We’ll run a few tests, do a few exams, and tell you everything you need to know, as well as the options we have. With our collective effort, your dog can run freely and happily.
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