Post-operative complications in orthopedic surgeries: What to watch for

When a dog or cat undergoes orthopedic surgery, most pet owners expect the hardest part to be over once the procedure is complete. However, the recovery period is just as crucial as the surgery itself, and unexpected complications can arise during this stage. Being able to recognize the early signs of post-operative issues can be the difference between a smooth recovery and a prolonged, painful, and even life-threatening outcome.

In the first few days after surgery, it is common to notice mild swelling, bruising, or slight discomfort near the surgical site. These signs are generally normal and expected, especially after procedures involving bone cuts, implants, or joint manipulation. However, any sign of excessive pain, persistent swelling that worsens over time, bleeding, or discharge from the incision site should raise concern.

These can be indicators of infection, which is one of the most common post-operative complications in veterinary orthopedics. Infections can occur superficially at the skin level or deeper around the bone and implants, requiring immediate veterinary intervention and possibly a prolonged course of antibiotics or even revision surgery.

Another complication that pet owners should watch for is implant failure. Orthopedic surgeries often involve the use of metal plates, screws, pins, or external fixators to stabilize bones or joints. If a pet is too active too soon or if the implants are not properly secured due to poor bone quality or surgical error, they can shift, loosen, or break.

Signs of implant failure include sudden limping after initial improvement, audible clicking sounds when the limb is moved, or visible deformities. These complications may necessitate another surgery to correct the problem.

Seroma formation—accumulation of fluid under the skin near the surgical site—is another issue that can occur during recovery. Though usually harmless and self-limiting, large or infected seromas can cause discomfort and delay healing. Owners might also observe changes in the pet’s overall behavior, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, shivering, or reluctance to move. These non-specific signs may point to internal complications like pain, systemic infection, or a reaction to medications.

Neurological deficits can occasionally develop, especially in surgeries near the spine or joints with rich nerve supplies. If the pet shows signs such as dragging a limb, lack of coordination, or abnormal posture, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately. Likewise, blood clots—although rare—can develop in some cases, especially in animals with limited mobility during recovery. This can lead to sudden respiratory distress, limb discoloration, or collapse, which are medical emergencies.

Finally, delayed bone healing or non-union can occur in certain animals, particularly those with underlying metabolic diseases, poor nutrition, or insufficient post-operative rest.

A veterinarian will monitor bone healing through follow-up radiographs and clinical assessments, and in some cases may need to adjust the recovery plan, including the use of supplements or regenerative therapies like stem cell injections or platelet-rich plasma.

Monitoring a pet’s recovery closely and maintaining communication with the veterinary surgeon throughout the post-operative period is essential.

While complications can be frightening, early detection and appropriate intervention significantly increase the chances of a full recovery. Pet owners should not hesitate to reach out to their veterinary team if anything seems off—even small changes can be meaningful when it comes to post-surgical care.

References: Johnston, S.A., & Tobias, K.M. (2017). Veterinary Surgery: Small Animal. Elsevier.Fossum, T.W. (2019). Small Animal Surgery. 5th Edition. Elsevier.