Author Insight In male dogs, to protect the skin from excoriation and to deter urine saturation of the bandage, a nonstick bandage (Telfa or Tendersorb) may be placed between the bandage and skin lateral to the prepuce.
Step 11
In the case of ventral luxations, the femoral head can often be manipulated back into the acetabulum by applying lateral and cranial pressure on the greater trochanter with one hand and traction against the ischium with the other hand. If the reduction proves to be stable, hobbling the rear legs together for a period of 10 days should allow sufficient time for soft tissues to begin to fibrose and heal.
Post Procedure Period
Reports of closed hip reduction indicate success in approximately 50% of cases. Though reduction maintenance in hip luxations can be difficult, close monitoring of the bandage every 3 to 4 days is critical for fibrosis and hip stabilization to occur. At this time, the hip can be checked to ensure that reduction is being maintained.
There are various recommendations for bandage placement duration; however, the minimum amount of time for Ehmer sling placement is 14 days, if the sling is being tolerated. Upon removal of the Ehmer sling, orthogonal view radiographs should be taken. Kennel confinement is recommended for a period of at least 4 to 6 weeks.