Client Instructions

Jocelyn should return in 7-10 days for a post-surgical evaluation.  The second 
surgery 
should be performed 3-5 weeks after the first.  

It is essential that Jocelyn be kept restrained during the healing period from 
the first 
operation until 7-8 weeks after the second operation.  This means confinement to 
a home 
or kennel, short leash walks only, no running, no jumping, and no contact with 
other 
dogs. 

Possible complications include loosening of the plate that holds the fragments 
together, 
fluid accumulation at the wound site, and wound infection.   Therefore, diligent 
monitoring of the patient is required by the owners.  Although the prognosis is 
very good, 
the operation cannot be guaranteed to prevent the development of osteoarthritis.