Dogs with hip (coxofemoral) luxation have a discrepancy in hind leg length. A craniodorsal displacement causes shortening of the affected limb while a cranioventral displacement causes lengthening.
An acute triangle between the greater trochanter, ischial tuberosity, and ilial wing indicates normal coxofemoral joint positioning. Think craniodorsal hip luxation if there is loss of this triangle (i.e.,. if a straight line is palpable). Also can look for symmetry in the position of the greater trochanter between the affected and normal side.
A positive cranial drawer is diagnostic for cranial cruciate ligament rupture. The Ortolani maneuver diagnoses subluxation in dogs with hip dysplasia. The spavin test is for tarsal arthritis in horses.
Hip luxation typically presents as a non-weight-bearing lameness, usually after blunt force trauma, (e.g., being hit by a car). Craniodorsal luxation of the femoral head is most common.
Tx: Closed or open reduction. Use closed reduction and Ehmer sling if injury is <48h old, patient is stable to undergo anesthesia, and hip structure is normal. 50% success rate.
Use open reduction if closed reduction is unstable or has failed.
Carefully monitor patient post-reduction for irritation/wounds and ischemia caused by Ehmer sling.
Here is some useful information from the University of Illinois about closed reduction of hip luxations. And here is some more helpful information from the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.
