PennHip Screening
PennHIP radiographic screening quantitatively measures hip joint laxity to assess your dog’s susceptibility for developing hip dysplasia and arthritis. This effective diagnostic tool goes beyond standard hip evaluations.
During the PennHIP procedure, radiographs are taken in three different positions. These specialized views allow precise measurement of joint laxity or looseness. The amount of femur displacement indicates joint instability and risk for future osteoarthritis.
PennHIP screening is recommended for any dog who has evidence of hip discomfort or for surveillance in predisposed breeds. Quantifying joint laxity while puppies are growing allows for early prevention strategies. We can customize therapy plans to strengthen hips and delay joint degeneration.
Antech PennHip Informational Video
pennhip FAQs
-
During PennHIP, radiographs are taken with the femur pushed out of the hip socket to measure how much manual displacement or "distraction" occurs. This displacement is calculated as a ratio called the distraction index (DI).
The distraction index is a quantitative, objective tool enabled by PennHIP testing to guide prevention and treatment decisions for canine hip dysplasia. Tightening loose hips may prevent pain and expense later in a dog's life.
-
PennHIP provides more accurate hip dysplasia risk assessment, especially in young puppies.
-
PennHIP can be performed as early as 16 weeks old to evaluate joint status during susceptible growth periods.
-
Yes, for the comfort and safety of your dog, PennHIP testing requires sedation and/or general anesthesia.
-
Yes, the stresses on loose joints often lead to arthritic changes detectable on the radiographs by 6-12 months of age.
-
The radiographs are then sent to a team of boarded veterinary radiologists, who interpret the images, assess joint health, and calculate the distraction index and provide results within 72 hours.