Dislocated Hip Treatment in Dogs and Cats

A dislocated hip can make it difficult or painful for your pet to move. TightRope stabilization is a surgical option used to help restore stability to the joint, supporting healing and a return to comfortable movement.
Understanding the treatment

What Is TightRope® Hip Toggle Stabilization?

TightRope stabilization is a type of hip toggle procedure used to help keep the hip joint in the correct position after it has been dislocated. The procedure is designed to restore stability to the joint while the surrounding tissues heal.

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint. A strong ligament that runs from the ball to the socket normally helps to hold it in place. When the hip becomes dislocated, the “ball” moves out of the “socket,” and these supporting tissues are damaged. This makes the joint unstable and difficult for your pet to use.

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How It Works

TightRope stabilization uses a strong surgical material to help stabilize the hip joint after a dislocation. The material functions like the ligament that was damaged during the injury, helping keep the joint properly aligned while the surrounding tissues heal. This support can improve comfort and stability and help your pet return to normal movement over time.

What to Expect

TightRope stabilization may be recommended if the hip cannot stay in place after it is repositioned or if additional support is needed during healing. As the tissues around the joint recover, they help restore long-term stability. Your veterinarian will determine whether this procedure is appropriate based on your pet's specific injury and overall health.

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Recovery After TightRope Hip Toggle for a Dislocated Hip

Many pets begin using the leg soon after surgery, but activity must be carefully controlled to allow proper healing.
For Dogs
For Cats

Recovery for Dogs

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Limited, leash‑controlled activity for several weeks
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Preventing running, jumping, and rough play
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Gradual increase in movement under veterinary guidance
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Follow‑up visits to monitor joint stability and healing
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Recovery for Cats

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Limited activity for several weeks
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Confinement to a small room with no furniture to jump on, or a large crate
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Use of paper pelleted cat litter to avoid incision complications
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Gradual increase in movement under veterinary guidance
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Follow‑up visits to monitor joint stability and healing
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v2.0.1

This is not veterinary advice and Arthrex recommends that veterinarians be trained in the use of any particular product before using it in surgery. A veterinarian must always rely on their own professional clinical judgment when deciding whether to use a particular product. A veterinarian must always refer to the package insert, product label, and/or directions for use before using any Arthrex product. Products may not be available in all markets because product availability is subject to the regulatory or veterinary practices in individual markets. Postoperative management is patient-specific and dependent on the treating professional's assessment. Individual results will vary and not all patients will experience the same postoperative activity level or outcomes. Please contact your Arthrex representative if you have questions about availability of products in your area.