When bones, joints, or ligaments fail, pets need specialized orthopedic expertise to restore function and relieve pain. At Tenafly Veterinary Center in Tenafly, NJ, we provide advanced veterinary orthopedic surgery supported by sophisticated imaging, experienced surgeons, and comprehensive post-operative care — giving your pet the best possible chance at full recovery.

What is Veterinary Orthopedic Surgery?

Veterinary orthopedic surgery addresses conditions of the skeletal system, joints, ligaments, and associated soft tissues. These procedures are typically more complex and recovery-intensive than soft tissue surgeries, requiring careful pre-operative planning, specialized equipment, and dedicated rehabilitation support.

Meet Our Orthopedic Surgeon — Dr. Christopher Dillon

Dr. Christopher Dillon is a graduate of Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine who completed a surgical internship and residency at the renowned Animal Medical Center in New York City. With 31 years of surgical experience, Dr. Dillon brings subspecialty expertise in:
  • Reconstructive surgery for trauma and cancer
  • Soft tissue and neurosurgery
  • Complex orthopedic corrections
  • Advanced joint procedures

Orthopedic Conditions We Treat

  • Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Rupture — the most common orthopedic injury in dogs (equivalent to an ACL tear in humans); surgical repair is typically required for return to full function
  • Luxating Patella — a kneecap that slips out of its groove, causing lameness and pain; correction often involves surgical deepening of the patellar groove
  • Fracture Repair — bone pinning, plating, and Kirschner apparatus repair for fractures caused by trauma
  • Shoulder and Elbow Abnormality Corrections — including osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) and fragmented coronoid process
  • Hip Dysplasia — a developmental condition causing painful hip joint malformation; management ranges from medical to surgical depending on severity

Pre-Surgical Process

Prior to any orthopedic procedure, your pet will have a full consultation with Dr. Dillon. This includes:
  • Comprehensive physical and orthopedic examination
  • Advanced imaging (X-rays, CT if needed) to characterize the condition precisely
  • Discussion of all surgical and non-surgical treatment options
  • Pre-operative blood work and health clearance
  • Detailed explanation of the procedure, recovery timeline, and expected outcomes

Post-Operative Care and Rehabilitation

Orthopedic surgery recovery requires careful management. After your pet's procedure, you will receive:
  • Detailed at-home care instructions specific to the procedure
  • Prescribed pain management protocol
  • Activity restriction guidelines and timeline
  • Exercise rehabilitation plan for gradual return to normal function
  • Follow-up appointment schedule for progress evaluation

Frequently Asked Questions

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