Roxy needs to have LP surgery AGAIN!! - YorkieTalk.com Forums

TLC · 09-21-2006, 01:02 PM

I need some advice please...

Yesterday I took Roxy for her 6 week recheck from her having Luxating Patella surgery on both rear legs.

During the first surgery, the Ortho Specialist made the decision that because Roxy has a slight curve to her leg bone that she just needed to deepen the groove and the knee cap slipped right back in and then she just tightened the tissues. Roxy is doing very well, however, her right leg has not stabilized and is luxating again - Grade 2. This leg was actually the 'better' of the two before surgery...

So, the Ortho Specialist recommends a second surgery, this time, she will do a tibial tuberosity transposition to help further stabilize this side. I will only have to pay for the 'drugs' = approx. $600 to $800 additional (the first surgery cost $3000).

What should I do???? It was a rough 6 weeks keeping her isolated from TJ. The Doctor says to give her back free run again, that everything has heeled that needed to. She said see if Roxy starts to limp or be in any pain. She said there is no need for me to worry about Roxy being put under anesthesia again, that she will be fine. My DH says to wait to see if she has pain. I am kinda leaning towards her having the surgery again soon, regardless if she limps (which I did see her do this past Sunday).
I am just a little confused...I want the best for her and I think she needs to have her 'flat-tire' fixed

What do you think?

Lacy's Mom · 09-21-2006, 04:58 PM

I would agree that since she did well with the anesthesia the first time, most likely she will again do fine. I think I would lean toward getting it right. You may eventually have to have it done anyway and then that surgeon may or may not be available at a discount.

On another note, it sounds like the surgeon didn't fix the problem so I don't know why they want to charge you anything - that amount for "drugs" is not possible, but maybe to pay for the anesthesia person, access to surgery room, and equipment etc. might come up that high, but still that should be their problem, not yours.

yorkiemalt · 09-22-2006, 05:35 AM

TLC,

I am so sorry to hear this news....I almost fell off my chair when I saw the Topic!

Remember I kept saying how different it was for Chan....especially with the recovery and all his restrictions. I know there's different variations to the surgery....although the only thing I could gauge Roxy's on was the price! I thought her surgeon had done the tibia cut and pin!

I don't know how to help.....if you like pm me - perhaps a 2nd opinion? You're not too far from me and I'd be happy to recommend the best Surgeon out there and I'm speaking from personal experience.

As far as the anesthesia right away....Chan's knees were done close together also. The first one was done April 2 and the second on June 29. He had no problems with that part of it.

Just read above where I said "perhaps a 2nd opinion" - you know what? DEFINITELY time for a 2nd opinion!

Hugs to you and Roxy.....try not to worry.....it's all fixable!

K

JeanieK · 09-22-2006, 06:12 AM

I'm so sorry to hear this. I've never had to deal with it so I don't have any suggestions, but I wish her wll.

yorkieusa · 09-22-2006, 06:28 AM

I hate to hear this! I'm like you, though. I think I would go ahead and do it. I try to look at things in the long run, not the short run.

Connie · 09-22-2006, 06:49 AM

Oh my gosh! When I saw this thread, I thought it must be an old thread from before! I feel so bad! All that Roxy and you all have gone through and it breaks my heart to know it isn't fixed. Bless her heart...yours too! At least it can be fixed, but it is so sad to have to go through 2 surgeries for something that should have been fixed in the first surgery. Thinking of you!!!

LuvMySissy · 09-22-2006, 07:16 AM

Poor Roxy and poor you!!! To have to go through this again just isn't fair. I agree with a 2nd opinion and also that the charges for the Anesthesia are too high unless they are factoring in other things - which I don't think they should. But, I guess that is easy to say for me.

Whatever you decide, I know you'll be doing what is best for Roxy. Hugs to you both!

JCarlson2004 · 09-22-2006, 07:24 AM

Awww poor Roxy!!

My Codie has LP surgery on his rear left leg and it healed perfectly -- he's like a new dog and the quality of his life greatly improved. My advice would be to have the surgery again. I can't imagine what our babies go through when their knee cap slips out at a moments notice!! Little Roxy sounds like a trooper and a brave girl!!! Get well soon Roxy!!

TLC · 09-22-2006, 10:14 AM

There is no doubt at all that her right rear leg is re-luxating again. I saw her limp and the Doctor did confirm during our visit. Thanks everyone for your advice in getting a 2nd opinion, I have to be honest that I am really not up for visiting another surgeon - because, the bottom line is that her leg is not stabilized and, either I do nothing or I have her go through surgery again (and I do not have another $3000 right now to start fresh). I have been to 2 Vets and 2 Specialists in preparing for Roxy's first surgery. ANY Surgery for Luxating Patella is NOT GUARENTEED 100% to never return. All surgeons just try and hope that they do the BEST in stabilizing the luxation, but it can re-occur (through injury, etc...)

I chose this Hospital and the Surgeon b/c I was confident she would get the best care. I still am. Of course I am upset that Roxy must go through surgey again, but at the same time, I feel that the Doctor used her best judgement based on Roxy Bone Structure. I am more upset that NOW Roxy must have 'tibia cut and pin'. That is more invasive because Roxy legs have a slight curvature and then there is still a chance that the pin can become loose and move after surgery...Oh how frustrating this all is.

The estimate for re-surgery only includes, anesthesia, epidural anesthesia, catheter, and a few other misc. stuff. I do not have to pay any Hospital &/or stay and care fees or Surgery fees.

Again, thanks everyone for your advice an kind words. I am probably going to schedule surgery in November. My brother graduates from Marine Bootcamp on Novemebr 17 (family trip to South Carolina) and I am going to see if I can get Roxy in on that following Monday. I just want her to be the best she can be...

...and then TJ will go for his surgery for Both Rear Legs - Luxating Patella next summer. We have to save up another $3000 first

yorkiemalt · 09-22-2006, 11:01 AM

So sorry....my mistake - I thought you had asked for advice on "what to do"?

TLC · 09-22-2006, 11:13 AM

Don't be sorry...I did ask what to do? I am sorry if I came off in an offensive way

It is so hard writing emoitions, ya know what I mean. I love hearing what everyone has to say. Honestly, I just didn't think advice would be to get another opinion, and I just don't have the strength or money for that. I will have to put my faith back into this surgeon. I kinda wanted to know what you thought about waiting until (If and When) Roxy started to really limp or seem bothered by it, or if I should just go ahead and re-schedule regardless if she shows signs?

Breny · 09-22-2006, 11:19 AM

I just wanted to share with you that I've been thru it with my Rogan. He too had to go in for a 2nd surgery on BOTH knees. The vet had to deepen the groove as well. Yes it was aweful, and a long recovery, but he seems fine today. He walk alittle funny, but we love him just the same.

Keep your chin up and I hope every thing goes well with your little one

Just wanted to let you know you werent' alone.

Breny · 09-22-2006, 11:24 AM

If you ever want to talk or need advise please feel free to PM me about the surgeries.

And gosh - I just read you have another baby going to have it done. I'm so sorry! Poor little ones!!!

TLC · 09-22-2006, 11:27 AM

Thank you. I am just so upset and frustrated b/c I just want Roxy and TJ to enjoy their life and be happy and play, etc...

It was tough on Me and Roxy and TJ with Roxy having to be confined for 6 weeks. Now I have to do it again with her and then again with TJ, but it could be worse, so I do count my blessings and enjoy the wonderful time I have everyday with my two little piggies

yorkiemalt · 09-22-2006, 11:42 AM

awww, remember TLC - I've been there!

Waiting just doesn't seem like a good idea to me and that is my unprofessional opinion. From all the information I've read the chances at the most successful outcome are based on the Grade the knee is at at the time of surgery.

That was a mouthful - but if Roxy is a Grade 2 right now 6 weeks post-op what are the chances she can be doing more and more damage in the upcoming months? These are really questions for your surgeon....perhaps you can call her with your worries.

As far as you being comfortable with her that is GREAT! That is the most important thing for you and Roxy.

I, on the other hand, can't help but wonder....Did Roxy have x-rays done before you went to her and when she saw them was her opinion to just do the deepening of the groove and tightening of the ligament? Did she suggest the tibial transpostion? Did she say lets do the least invasive and wait and see if it works?

Either way...hindsight is ALWAYS 20-20 and I'm sure if you had it to do all over again you obviously would not want Roxy to go through this again.

Oh, before I forget, as far as the "pin" migrating, I was told it will not affect the repair - what happens is sometimes after the bone is healed the pin pushes itself out and then has to be removed. Best case scenario is that is pokes itself through the skin and then he can remove it right in the office, if not Chan would have to be put under again and the pin taken out! God - what choices we have to make for our babies!

You know I told you what Chan went through and guess what? WE MADE IT - he is now, TODAY, 12 weeks post-op (second knee) and running around like a nut! ALL restrictions are gone as of today and he is taking full advantage of that fact...lol! I think I will always WORRY....but he sure seems happy and comfortable.

Take care of yourself.....it will be OK....

09-21-2006, 01:02 PM	#1
TLC Slave to My Rug-Rats Donating Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Long Island Posts: 7,247	Roxy needs to have LP surgery AGAIN!! I need some advice please... Yesterday I took Roxy for her 6 week recheck from her having Luxating Patella surgery on both rear legs. During the first surgery, the Ortho Specialist made the decision that because Roxy has a slight curve to her leg bone that she just needed to deepen the groove and the knee cap slipped right back in and then she just tightened the tissues. Roxy is doing very well, however, her right leg has not stabilized and is luxating again - Grade 2. This leg was actually the 'better' of the two before surgery... So, the Ortho Specialist recommends a second surgery, this time, she will do a tibial tuberosity transposition to help further stabilize this side. I will only have to pay for the 'drugs' = approx. $600 to $800 additional (the first surgery cost $3000). What should I do???? It was a rough 6 weeks keeping her isolated from TJ. The Doctor says to give her back free run again, that everything has heeled that needed to. She said see if Roxy starts to limp or be in any pain. She said there is no need for me to worry about Roxy being put under anesthesia again, that she will be fine. My DH says to wait to see if she has pain. I am kinda leaning towards her having the surgery again soon, regardless if she limps (which I did see her do this past Sunday). I am just a little confused...I want the best for her and I think she needs to have her 'flat-tire' fixed What do you think? __________________ Adopt Donate Foster www.yorkie911rescue.com

09-22-2006, 06:28 AM	#5
yorkieusa Crazy about Kacee! Donating Member Join Date: May 2005 Location: Kansas Posts: 21,173	I hate to hear this! I'm like you, though. I think I would go ahead and do it. I try to look at things in the long run, not the short run. __________________ Karen Kacee Muffin 1991-2005 Rest in Peace My Little Angel

09-22-2006, 06:49 AM	#6
Connie Loved by Maddie & Libby Donating Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: North Dakota Posts: 10,732	Oh my gosh! When I saw this thread, I thought it must be an old thread from before! I feel so bad! All that Roxy and you all have gone through and it breaks my heart to know it isn't fixed. Bless her heart...yours too! At least it can be fixed, but it is so sad to have to go through 2 surgeries for something that should have been fixed in the first surgery. Thinking of you!!! __________________ Custom doggie dresses and vests Memory is a country where I can go to see your face - but where do I go when I miss your embrace?

09-22-2006, 07:16 AM	#7
LuvMySissy Luv my Angel, too! Donating Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: USA Posts: 9,333	Poor Roxy and poor you!!! To have to go through this again just isn't fair. I agree with a 2nd opinion and also that the charges for the Anesthesia are too high unless they are factoring in other things - which I don't think they should. But, I guess that is easy to say for me. Whatever you decide, I know you'll be doing what is best for Roxy. Hugs to you both! __________________ Sissy & Angel

09-22-2006, 07:24 AM	#8
JCarlson2004 Mommy To 3 Poochies Donating Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: New York Posts: 8,287	Awww poor Roxy!! My Codie has LP surgery on his rear left leg and it healed perfectly -- he's like a new dog and the quality of his life greatly improved. My advice would be to have the surgery again. I can't imagine what our babies go through when their knee cap slips out at a moments notice!! Little Roxy sounds like a trooper and a brave girl!!! Get well soon Roxy!! __________________ Mommy Loves Codie, Tia & Baby Cali RIP My Precious Katie - I Love You

09-21-2006, 04:58 PM	#2
Lacy's Mom YT 3000 Club Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: El Paso, Texas Posts: 3,065	I would agree that since she did well with the anesthesia the first time, most likely she will again do fine. I think I would lean toward getting it right. You may eventually have to have it done anyway and then that surgeon may or may not be available at a discount. On another note, it sounds like the surgeon didn't fix the problem so I don't know why they want to charge you anything - that amount for "drugs" is not possible, but maybe to pay for the anesthesia person, access to surgery room, and equipment etc. might come up that high, but still that should be their problem, not yours.

09-22-2006, 05:35 AM	#3
yorkiemalt Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Northern NJ Posts: 3,468	TLC, I am so sorry to hear this news....I almost fell off my chair when I saw the Topic! Remember I kept saying how different it was for Chan....especially with the recovery and all his restrictions. I know there's different variations to the surgery....although the only thing I could gauge Roxy's on was the price! I thought her surgeon had done the tibia cut and pin! I don't know how to help.....if you like pm me - perhaps a 2nd opinion? You're not too far from me and I'd be happy to recommend the best Surgeon out there and I'm speaking from personal experience. As far as the anesthesia right away....Chan's knees were done close together also. The first one was done April 2 and the second on June 29. He had no problems with that part of it. Just read above where I said "perhaps a 2nd opinion" - you know what? DEFINITELY time for a 2nd opinion! Hugs to you and Roxy.....try not to worry.....it's all fixable! K

09-22-2006, 06:12 AM	#4
JeanieK Donating YT 12K Club Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Council Bluffs Iowa Posts: 12,552	I'm so sorry to hear this. I've never had to deal with it so I don't have any suggestions, but I wish her wll.

09-22-2006, 10:14 AM	#9
TLC Slave to My Rug-Rats Donating Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Long Island Posts: 7,247	There is no doubt at all that her right rear leg is re-luxating again. I saw her limp and the Doctor did confirm during our visit. Thanks everyone for your advice in getting a 2nd opinion, I have to be honest that I am really not up for visiting another surgeon - because, the bottom line is that her leg is not stabilized and, either I do nothing or I have her go through surgery again (and I do not have another $3000 right now to start fresh). I have been to 2 Vets and 2 Specialists in preparing for Roxy's first surgery. ANY Surgery for Luxating Patella is NOT GUARENTEED 100% to never return. All surgeons just try and hope that they do the BEST in stabilizing the luxation, but it can re-occur (through injury, etc...) I chose this Hospital and the Surgeon b/c I was confident she would get the best care. I still am. Of course I am upset that Roxy must go through surgey again, but at the same time, I feel that the Doctor used her best judgement based on Roxy Bone Structure. I am more upset that NOW Roxy must have 'tibia cut and pin'. That is more invasive because Roxy legs have a slight curvature and then there is still a chance that the pin can become loose and move after surgery...Oh how frustrating this all is. The estimate for re-surgery only includes, anesthesia, epidural anesthesia, catheter, and a few other misc. stuff. I do not have to pay any Hospital &/or stay and care fees or Surgery fees. Again, thanks everyone for your advice an kind words. I am probably going to schedule surgery in November. My brother graduates from Marine Bootcamp on Novemebr 17 (family trip to South Carolina) and I am going to see if I can get Roxy in on that following Monday. I just want her to be the best she can be... ...and then TJ will go for his surgery for Both Rear Legs - Luxating Patella next summer. We have to save up another $3000 first __________________ Adopt Donate Foster www.yorkie911rescue.com

09-22-2006, 11:01 AM	#10
yorkiemalt Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Northern NJ Posts: 3,468	So sorry....my mistake - I thought you had asked for advice on "what to do"?

09-22-2006, 11:13 AM	#11
TLC Slave to My Rug-Rats Donating Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Long Island Posts: 7,247	Don't be sorry...I did ask what to do? I am sorry if I came off in an offensive way It is so hard writing emoitions, ya know what I mean. I love hearing what everyone has to say. Honestly, I just didn't think advice would be to get another opinion, and I just don't have the strength or money for that. I will have to put my faith back into this surgeon. I kinda wanted to know what you thought about waiting until (If and When) Roxy started to really limp or seem bothered by it, or if I should just go ahead and re-schedule regardless if she shows signs? __________________ Adopt Donate Foster www.yorkie911rescue.com

09-22-2006, 11:19 AM	#12
Breny My Tiny Treasures Donating Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: . Posts: 11,790 Blog Entries: 3	I just wanted to share with you that I've been thru it with my Rogan. He too had to go in for a 2nd surgery on BOTH knees. The vet had to deepen the groove as well. Yes it was aweful, and a long recovery, but he seems fine today. He walk alittle funny, but we love him just the same. Keep your chin up and I hope every thing goes well with your little one Just wanted to let you know you werent' alone. __________________ http://Brenysbabies.com

09-22-2006, 11:24 AM	#13
Breny My Tiny Treasures Donating Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: . Posts: 11,790 Blog Entries: 3	Just wanted to ad... If you ever want to talk or need advise please feel free to PM me about the surgeries. And gosh - I just read you have another baby going to have it done. I'm so sorry! Poor little ones!!! __________________ http://Brenysbabies.com

09-22-2006, 11:27 AM	#14
TLC Slave to My Rug-Rats Donating Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Long Island Posts: 7,247	Thank you. I am just so upset and frustrated b/c I just want Roxy and TJ to enjoy their life and be happy and play, etc... It was tough on Me and Roxy and TJ with Roxy having to be confined for 6 weeks. Now I have to do it again with her and then again with TJ, but it could be worse, so I do count my blessings and enjoy the wonderful time I have everyday with my two little piggies __________________ Adopt Donate Foster www.yorkie911rescue.com

09-22-2006, 11:42 AM	#15
yorkiemalt Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Northern NJ Posts: 3,468	awww, remember TLC - I've been there! Waiting just doesn't seem like a good idea to me and that is my unprofessional opinion. From all the information I've read the chances at the most successful outcome are based on the Grade the knee is at at the time of surgery. That was a mouthful - but if Roxy is a Grade 2 right now 6 weeks post-op what are the chances she can be doing more and more damage in the upcoming months? These are really questions for your surgeon....perhaps you can call her with your worries. As far as you being comfortable with her that is GREAT! That is the most important thing for you and Roxy. I, on the other hand, can't help but wonder....Did Roxy have x-rays done before you went to her and when she saw them was her opinion to just do the deepening of the groove and tightening of the ligament? Did she suggest the tibial transpostion? Did she say lets do the least invasive and wait and see if it works? Either way...hindsight is ALWAYS 20-20 and I'm sure if you had it to do all over again you obviously would not want Roxy to go through this again. Oh, before I forget, as far as the "pin" migrating, I was told it will not affect the repair - what happens is sometimes after the bone is healed the pin pushes itself out and then has to be removed. Best case scenario is that is pokes itself through the skin and then he can remove it right in the office, if not Chan would have to be put under again and the pin taken out! God - what choices we have to make for our babies! You know I told you what Chan went through and guess what? WE MADE IT - he is now, TODAY, 12 weeks post-op (second knee) and running around like a nut! ALL restrictions are gone as of today and he is taking full advantage of that fact...lol! I think I will always WORRY....but he sure seems happy and comfortable. Take care of yourself.....it will be OK....