Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis
Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS) is a relatively simple procedure that helps to prevent the
development of osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia. This procedure is best performed on dogs
between 14-18 weeks old, and this is considered as an early intervention method to not only save
money in the future but reduce the possibility of future surgery.
The benefits of JPS are greatly reduced after 20 weeks. Therefore, we recommend that a PennHIP
screening be conducted early at 16 weeks. If the results indicate a high hip laxity and hip
dysplasia risk, a JPS should be performed as soon as possible.
This procedure makes use of an electroscalpel to manually manipulate bone development and provide better coverage of the hip joints. By closing a growth plate at the base of the pelvis, this creates selective growth of the pelvis and the hip cup.
By diminishing hip laxity at a young age (under 18 weeks), puppies will grow into adulthood with healthy hips and full mobility. Because most puppies at that age do not show symptoms of canine hip dysplasia, early diagnosis at between 14-16 weeks of age via PennHIP is important.
Having a healthy diet and weight management is important as your puppy is growing, and even more
so when the hip joint is developing. During these 4-6 months after the surgery, leash walks are
permitted but strenuous off leash exercise should be avoided until the follow-up exams provide a
clear diagnosis and recovery.
Follow-up X-rays will be taken progressively to measure the success of the procedure, and the
all-clear period will be at about 10 months of age.
Around 90% of dogs will benefit from this preventative measure as they will not display any sign
of arthritis or require any advanced surgery for their hip joint.
For puppies above 9 months of age, total hip replacement will be considered as one of the
preventative measures instead.
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