At Middle Brighton Vet, we offer Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS) - a preventative surgical procedure designed to reduce the risk of hip dysplasia in young, growing dogs.
When performed at the right stage of development, JPS can significantly improve hip stability and long-term mobility, helping active puppies grow into strong, pain-free adults.
What is JPS?
JPS is a minimally invasive early-age procedure that modifies how the hip joints develop. By gently altering the growth of the pelvis, it allows the hip sockets to form a deeper, more stable fit around the ball of the joint - reducing the risk of future arthritis and discomfort. It is performed before the puppy's growth plates close, usually between 12 and 20 weeks of age.
When is JPS recommended?
Recommendations are based on Pennhip x-rays, which score your puppy's hips for laxity in the joint. Your veterinarian may recommend JPS to help improve this and reduce the likelihood of complications associated with hip dysplasia in the future.
The JPS procedure
1. Assessment and imaging - hip laxity is measured via physical exam and confirmed on X-ray. 2. Pre-surgery planning - if JPS is indicated, the procedure is scheduled under general anaesthetic. 3. Surgery - controlled heat is applied to a small section of the pubic growth plate. 4. Recovery - short period of rest with return to normal function.
Expected outcomes
When performed early, JPS has an excellent success rate in improving long-term hip stability and reducing the risk of degenerative joint disease.
FAQ
What age is best for JPS?
The optimal age range is between 16-18 weeks of age. After this point, the pelvic growth plates close and the surgery becomes ineffective.
How do I know if my puppy needs it?
All large breed dogs are encouraged to have Pennhip x-rays performed, which will tell us how susceptible your puppy is to hip dysplasia. Recommendations will be based on these x-rays. Please have a chat with one our veterinarians to discuss it further.
Is JPS painful or risky?
It’s a relatively minor, low-risk procedure. Pain relief is provided before and after surgery.
Will my puppy need crate rest?
As with any surgery, rest is recommended for a few days afterwards, but they usually have a fast recovery.
Does it prevent hip dysplasia completely?
It reduces the risk but doesn’t guarantee prevention. Genetics, weight, exercise, and nutrition all still play key roles and we can discuss how else to keep your puppies joints healthy.
What happens if we miss the timing window?
If your puppy is older than ~20 weeks, our team can discuss alternative orthopaedic procedures that support hip stability in later growth stages.
JPS Surgery
Our team of professionals are here to help make pet care easy. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet's health, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or give us a call to arrange a suitable time.
