Acetabular dysplasia
Also known as: Hüftpfannendysplasie · Acetabuläre Dysplasie · Shallow acetabulum · Flache Hüftpfanne
Overview
What it is
This is a developmental malformation of the hip joint, specifically affecting the hip socket, known as the acetabulum. The socket is too shallow to properly hold the head of the thigh bone, or femur, causing the joint to be unstable. Over time, this instability leads to painful wear and tear of the joint cartilage, resulting in chronic joint inflammation.
How it presents
Owners typically notice signs like a wobbly or swaying gait, difficulty standing up, or limping, which usually begin to appear between 4 and 12 months of age. As the dog grows older, these symptoms can progress to severe stiffness and a noticeable reluctance to run or jump.
Treatment
While the underlying malformation cannot be cured, it can be managed through lifelong pain relief and physical therapy, or corrected with major surgeries like a total hip replacement. Depending on the chosen approach, treatment costs typically range from €1,500 to €8,000.
How it's tested
Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI(HD-FCI)
Primary testRadiographRöntgenaufnahme der Hüftgelenke unter Sedation, ausgewertet nach FCI-Standard (A-E). Standardpflicht bei den meisten VDH-Zuchtvereinen.
Issuing body: FCI
Result scheme: HD-FCI
OFA Hip Evaluation(OFA-H)
RadiographNorth American Orthopedic Foundation for Animals hip evaluation (Excellent/Good/Fair/Borderline/Mild/Moderate/Severe).
Issuing body: OFA
Result scheme: OFA-Hip
PennHIP Distraction Index(PennHIP)
RadiographQuantitative hip joint laxity measurement (distraction index 0–1, lower = tighter).
Issuing body: PennHIP
Result scheme: PennHIP-DI
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Acetabular dysplasia?
This is a developmental malformation of the hip joint, specifically affecting the hip socket, known as the acetabulum. The socket is too shallow to properly hold the head of the thigh bone, or femur, causing the joint to be unstable. Over time, this instability leads to painful wear and tear of the joint cartilage, resulting in chronic joint inflammation.
How is Acetabular dysplasia tested?
Tests currently in our database: Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI, OFA Hip Evaluation, PennHIP Distraction Index.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.