pantarsal arthrodesis surgery

My dog injured his leg two weeks ago, presumed palmar fibrocartilage ligament rupture. He is now two weeks post-op (pantarsal arthrodesis surgery), but wont weight bear on his leg. Was this the correct operation for this type of injury - could they not have repaired the ligament? Is it normal for him not to be weight bearing yet? Thanks

Hello!  Arthrodesis is often used as what is known as a 'salvage' procedure, performed to preserve the limb to some extent when more precise repair is unavailable or considered inappropriate or unfeasible for some reason. I am in no position to pass judgement regarding whether other options were feasible or available, as I know nothing of your dog's injury or circumstances.  If it was used, then presumably it was thought to be the best option under the circumstances.   Presumably your vet would have obtained appropriate consent. Sometimes amputation is an alternative option, but again this is situation- dependant. Has your dog had any post-op appointments since the surgery?  It sounds as though they may require an examination and a review of the case or the pain relief, so we would suggest going back to your vet.

Rereading your question, it seems that what you want is a second opinion on a decision that has already been made.  If, after talking to your vets, this is still what you are looking for, then possibilities include speaking to the veterinary regulatory body, the RCVS and asking them to review the case for you, or asking your vet to refer the case to an orthopaedic specialist.

for a formal second opinion.

To explain that further, referral to a specialist occurs after your vets have reviewed a case, for example when they require more expert advice or skills in order to solve it.  For example, they might send a patient to an orthopaedic surgeon to ask if any new, more advanced techniques are available or whether a course of treatment is definitely the best one in a tricky case.  The RCVS are the body that considers complaints which cannot be resolved through the vets (you have, I would like to clarify, given me no reason at all to think that a complaint is in order). However, it sounds as though for now, a case review with your own vet is needed to ensure that your dog's pain is currently under good regulation and see what next steps they are proposing.