What is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip Dysplasia is a genetic/heritable condition causing arthritis or degenerative joint disease of the hip joints. It affects every breed of dog but is most commonly seen in large and giant breeds. Hip Dysplasia can be seen in very young dogs or it can develop in a more chronic form as a dog ages. It is one of the most common and debilitating diseases seen in large breed dogs today.

 

What is PennHIP?

A scientific method to evaluate a dog for his susceptibility to develop Hip Dysplasia. The technique involves taking several different radiographic evaluations of the hip joints in order to predict the probability of a dog developing hip dysplasia during his life. "Passive hip laxity" can be measured with one of the specific positioning techniques. The degree of "passive hip laxity" is an important factor in determining the susceptibility in developing Hip Dysplasia. The protocol was developed at The University of Pennsylvania, hence the name, PennHIP.

How does PennHIP differ from OFA?

1. PennHIP evaluations allow viewing the geometry of the hip joint.
2. Distraction x-ray views of the hip joint allow evaluation of the laxity of structures that hold the joint together.
3. Compression views indicate the amount of joint fluid present to lubricate the joint.

Using all of this information together has been shown to be a more reliable indicator of future hip dysplasia. Also, PennHIP evaluations can be done as young as 16 weeks of age, much sooner than the OFA standard of 2 years of age.

The evaluation process of the x-rays is under strict scientific protocol and interpretation will not vary with the radiologist reading the films. Also, individual dogs are measured against dogs of the same breed.

Even though we cannot change the genetic makeup of a dog, by using preventative medicine such as joint supplements and appropriate environmental management, you could lessen or slow down the process of hip degeneration in you dog if he/she has the genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia.

The value of PennHIP goes far beyond breeding evaluations,
it is useful for evaluating any dog with the potential of developing hip dysplasia.

Dr. Barr is certified as a PennHIP veterinarian.

For more details visit the PennHIP website