Orthopedic Pet Surgery & Joint Repair in Roseville, CA

At Stonebridge Veterinary Wellness, we offer advanced orthopedic pet surgery and joint repair in Roseville, CA — helping pets regain mobility, reduce pain, and enjoy a healthier, more active life.

Orthopedic conditions affecting bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles can significantly impact your pet’s mobility, comfort, and quality of life. From developmental disorders in young animals to degenerative conditions in senior pets, orthopedic problems require specialized surgical expertise to restore function and alleviate pain while preserving your pet’s ability to engage in normal activities.

At Stonebridge Veterinary Wellness, our experienced Roseville pet surgeons provide  comprehensive orthopedic surgery services for dogs and cats with a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Dr. Erin Paster is a board-certified surgeon and brings extensive orthopedic surgical experience to ensure your pet receives the most advanced and effective treatment available, with particular expertise in complex joint procedures and bone repair techniques.

Common Orthopedic Conditions

Orthopedic problems in pets can result from congenital abnormalities, traumatic injuries, or degenerative changes that develop over time. Cruciate ligament injuries represent one of the most frequently encountered orthopedic conditions, particularly in active dogs, causing instability in the knee joint that leads to pain, lameness, and progressive arthritis if left untreated.

Common Orthopedic Conditions We Treat

Joint pain and lameness often signal underlying orthopedic issues requiring surgical intervention. Our Roseville veterinarians evaluate each case thoroughly and confirm the diagnosis before recommending surgery:
  • Cruciate ligament injuries affecting knee stability
  • Patella luxation resulting in mechanical instability and further joint damage — often requiring patella luxation surgery
  • Hip dysplasia causing pain and mobility limitations — in some cases treated through femoral head ostectomy
  • Fractures requiring external fixation, or internal fixation with plates or pins — often addressed with broken leg & hip surgery
  • Elbow dysplasia leading to the development of arthritis
  • Joint luxations requiring restoration of joint structure and function
Hip dysplasia affects many dogs, particularly larger breeds, causing abnormal development of the hip joint that results in pain, reduced mobility, and arthritis. This condition can range from mild cases managed with conservative treatment to severe cases requiring surgical intervention to restore comfort and function.

Developmental Orthopedic Diseases

Young, rapidly growing pets may develop various orthopedic conditions related to abnormal bone or joint development. Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) affects joint cartilage development, while conditions like elbow dysplasia can cause lameness and pain in developing puppies. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of these conditions often prevent long-term complications and preserve joint function. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, commonly affects small-breed dogs and can cause varying degrees of lameness depending on the severity of the condition. Surgical correction realigns the joint structures and prevents progression to more severe grades of luxation, as well as reduces the risk of common sequelae such as cruciate ligament injury and meniscal tears. Our veterinary team frequently treats joint conditions such as patella luxations, where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. We also address issues with abnormal bone growth (angular limb deformity), premature growth plate closure, bone and joint infections, fusion of the joints, cartilage lesions and developmental abnormalities affecting your pet’s mobility and comfort.

How We Diagnose Orthopedic Problems in Pets

Accurate diagnosis forms the foundation of successful pet orthopedic surgery in Roseville and the surrounding areas. Our diagnostic process begins with a comprehensive physical examination, focusing on gait analysis, joint manipulation, and pain assessment techniques.

Advanced imaging plays a crucial role in orthopedic diagnosis. We utilize digital radiography to visualize bone structures, joint alignment, and fracture patterns. For complex cases requiring detailed soft tissue evaluation, we coordinate with imaging facilities for CT scans or MRI studies. Our specialized screenings for hip and elbow conditions help detect developmental problems early, potentially avoiding more invasive procedures later. For example, we use PennHIP screening to evaluate hip dysplasia risk in puppies as young as 16 weeks of age, and employ early techniques and recommendations to delay or prevent future hip problems before they develop.

Some patients require evaluation of the joint fluid or bone biopsy for further diagnosis. Diagnostics such as these are used when other underlying causes are suspected that are causing or contributing to the orthopedic condition. Armed with this diagnostic information, we ensure that our patients are properly diagnosed and are provided with effective treatments.

Surgical Techniques We Use

Modern orthopedic surgery utilizes various techniques and implants to restore normal bone and joint function. Fracture repair may involve the use of plates, screws, pins, or external fixation devices, depending on the location and type of fracture. Our surgical team selects the most appropriate fixation method based on factors such as bone size, fracture pattern, and expected healing characteristics.

Joint surgeries range from arthroscopic procedures or mini arthrotomies for minimally invasive treatment of certain conditions to total joint replacement or osteotomies for severe arthritis or hip dysplasia. Cruciate ligament repair techniques have evolved significantly, with procedures such as the Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) providing excellent long-term outcomes for dogs with these injuries, whereas the extracapsular repair remains a long-standing technique still benefiting cats and small dogs.

Specialized Procedures

Our orthopedic surgery capabilities also include treatment of complex conditions such as angular limb deformities, joint luxations, and growth plate injuries. These specialized procedures require advanced surgical planning and technique to achieve optimal functional outcomes while minimizing complications and recovery time.

Arthrodesis, or joint fusion, may be recommended for certain conditions where joint preservation is not possible, providing pain relief and functional stability for affected limbs. While these procedures eliminate joint motion, many pets adapt well and can maintain a great quality of life following recovery. 

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Pain Management and Recovery

Effective pain management represents a cornerstone of successful orthopedic surgery outcomes. Our comprehensive pain management protocols begin before surgery and continue throughout the recovery period, utilizing multiple medications and techniques to ensure patient comfort while promoting healing.

Post-operative care varies depending on the specific procedure performed, but typically includes restricted activity, physical therapy recommendations, and gradual return to normal exercise levels. Controlled activity during the initial healing period is crucial for proper bone and soft tissue healing, while appropriate exercise helps maintain muscle mass and joint mobility.

Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Physical rehabilitation plays an important role in optimizing recovery from orthopedic surgery. This may include range of motion exercises, controlled walking programs, swimming therapy, and other activities designed to restore strength and mobility while protecting healing tissues.

Our team provides detailed rehabilitation guidelines and works with pet families to ensure appropriate activity levels throughout the recovery process. Regular follow-up appointments allow us to monitor healing progress and adjust activity recommendations as your pet’s condition improves.

Long-Term Outcomes

Most pets experience significant improvement in comfort and mobility following orthopedic surgery, with many returning to normal or near-normal activity levels. Success rates are generally high for most orthopedic procedures, particularly when surgery is performed before severe arthritis or muscle atrophy develops.

Long-term joint health can be supported through appropriate exercise, weight management, and joint supplements when recommended. Regular veterinary examinations help monitor for any signs of implant problems or progression of arthritis in other joints.

Arthritis Prevention and Management

Many orthopedic conditions, if left untreated, progress to secondary arthritis that can cause chronic pain and mobility limitations. Preventative surgery can stop or slow this progression, preserving joint function and maintaining quality of life throughout your pet’s lifetime.

When arthritis does develop, various management strategies can help maintain comfort and mobility, including medications, joint supplements, weight management, and activity modification. Our team provides ongoing support and guidance for managing any long-term effects of orthopedic conditions.

Advanced Surgical Capabilities

Our orthopedic surgery team utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to provide the highest level of care for pets with musculoskeletal conditions. This includes imaging capabilities for surgical planning, specialized orthopedic instruments, and a comprehensive inventory of implants and fixation devices to address various types of orthopedic problems.

Continuing education and advanced training ensure that our surgical team stays current with the latest developments in veterinary orthopedic surgery, incorporating new techniques and technologies that improve patient outcomes and reduce recovery times.

Contact Us for Your Pet's Orthopedic Surgery Consultation

Pet orthopedic surgery in Roseville and the surrounding areas requires the precision, attentiveness, and compassion our board-certified surgeon and experienced veterinary team provides. With over 20 years of experience treating fractures, joint conditions, and complex orthopedic problems, Dr. Erin Paster and our Stonebridge team understand the importance of restoring your pet’s mobility and comfort. Our family-owned, state-of-the-art practice combines advanced surgical techniques with personalized care, creating treatment plans designed specifically for your companion’s needs.

Don’t wait when your pet shows signs of joint pain, injury, or mobility problems. Visit our practice to discover why pet owners throughout Roseville and the surrounding areas trust us with their companions’ orthopedic care.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Orthopedic Surgery for Pets

What Should You Expect During the Recovery Process?

Recovery from pet orthopedic surgery requires careful monitoring, bed rest, physical therapy exercises, and a gradual return to regular activity. Our veterinary team provides detailed home care instructions covering medication administration, activity restrictions, physical therapy recommendations, and wound management protocols. 

Our team is available to answer questions and assist you in preparing your home environment for a comfortable surgical recovery. Throughout the recovery period, regular check-ups allow us to monitor healing progress and adjust treatment protocols as needed. We are always available during business hours to address any concerns that arise during your dog’s recovery.

Like all surgical procedures, pet orthopedic surgery carries inherent risks, including anesthesia complications, bleeding, infection, delayed healing, and implant-related problems. Our board-certified surgeon and experienced veterinary team take extensive precautions to minimize these risks through thorough pre-operative evaluation, precise surgical technique, advanced surgical expertise, and sterile surgical techniques.

We conduct comprehensive pre-surgical examinations, including blood work and radiographs, to identify potential complications before surgery. Our anesthesia protocols are tailored to each patient’s individual needs, with continuous monitoring throughout the procedure to maintain safety. Our state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and experienced anesthesia team ensure that your pet’s vital signs are monitored closely during anesthesia and anesthetic recovery. And, our state-of-the-art heated operating table, warming devices, and warming techniques are used to maintain body temperature.

Long-term joint health depends on several factors, including maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and receiving ongoing veterinary care. Our team works with pet owners to develop comprehensive wellness plans supporting orthopedic health throughout your pet’s life.

Weight management plays a crucial role in reducing stress on healing joints and preventing future orthopedic problems. We provide nutrition counseling and weight management strategies tailored to your pet’s specific needs and activity level. Regular annual wellness exams help us monitor your pet’s joint health and identify potential problems before they require surgical intervention.

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Meet Our Veterinarians

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Dr. Christina Venable

Pain Management Specialist

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Dr. Arlene McKinstry

Integrative Medicine Practitioner

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Dr. Erin Paster

Board-Certified Surgeon

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Located at 254 Gibson Drive in Roseville, our family-owned veterinary clinic provides compassionate, five-star care to pets throughout Roseville and the surrounding areas. Led by board-certified surgeon Dr. Erin Paster with over 20 years of experience, our team treats every pet with the same love and respect we would our own.

The information provided on this website has been reviewed by our veterinarians but is for educational purposes only. It should not replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet is experiencing a medical concern, please contact our clinic at (916) 773-8578 or seek immediate veterinary care.