Orthopedics course for small animals

Orthopedics course for small animals

Small Animal Orthopedics Course I-III

Are you looking for a specialized "Small Animal Orthopedics Course"? Then you've come to the right place! Our "Small Animal Orthopedics Courses" offer comprehensive training that will specifically expand your expertise and skills in the field of small animal orthopedics.

Each "Small Animal Orthopedics Course" is carefully structured to introduce you to the latest techniques and treatment methods. In our "Small Animal Orthopedics Courses," you will learn everything from diagnosis to postoperative care, enabling you to improve the quality of life for your four-legged patients.

Each "Small Animal Orthopedics Course" is ideal for veterinarians who want to deepen their knowledge and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in veterinary practice. In each "Small Animal Orthopedics Course," you will be taught by experienced instructors who will share their practical experience and extensive expertise.

Participating in a "Small Animal Orthopedics Course" offers not only an excellent opportunity for continuing education but also for exchanging knowledge with colleagues and experts in the field of small animal orthopedics. Our "Small Animal Orthopedics Courses" are designed to optimally combine theory and practice, enabling you to directly apply what you learn in your daily work.

Don't miss the opportunity to participate in one of our "Small Animal Orthopedics Courses I-III". You will not only expand your knowledge but also improve your skills in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of orthopedic conditions in small animals. Register now for a "Small Animal Orthopedics Course" and set a new standard in your professional career.

Every "Small Animal Orthopedics Course" is an investment in your future and the health of your animal patients. Join us and experience how our "Small Animal Orthopedics Course" can advance your professional development. We look forward to welcoming you to our "Small Animal Orthopedics Course I-III" and expanding your knowledge of small animal orthopedics together.

Orthopedics course for small animals

Overview of the Orthopedics Course for Small Animals I-III for Veterinarians

The doc4pets Academy courses in orthopedic surgery are aimed at veterinarians in practice or academia who wish to deepen their knowledge of orthopedic diseases in small animals. The focus is on the diagnostic and treatment principles of various orthopedic conditions.

The comprehensive study program currently consists of three one-week modules. A large portion of the time is dedicated to interactive and practical training under the supervision of course leaders and instructors, all internationally recognized specialists.

After completing the entire program, participants should have acquired sufficient knowledge not only to face most current clinical situations, but also to develop themselves further and to recognize cases that need to be referred to specialists.
The first Small Animal Orthopedics Course I Ortho II and III must be taken before all other courses. They can be taken in any order.

Course program covering all three course topics available for download

Overview of the Small Animal Orthopedics Course I-III

The doc4pets Academy's orthopedic surgery courses (Small Animal Orthopedics I-III) are specifically designed for practicing veterinarians and academic professionals who wish to expand their understanding of orthopedic disorders in small animals. These courses focus on the fundamentals of diagnosis and treatment methods for various orthopedic conditions.

The comprehensive training program is currently divided into three one-week modules, which primarily consist of practical and interactive learning units. These take place under the guidance and supervision of our internationally renowned course instructors and trainers, who will share their expertise and experience with you.

Upon completion of the entire course, participants will possess the necessary knowledge to effectively address most current clinical challenges. Furthermore, they should be able to independently expand their knowledge and recognize when a referral to a specialist is necessary.

Please note that the "Orthopedics I" course serves as a foundation and must therefore be completed before the advanced courses "Ortho II" and "Ortho III". The order in which you take "Ortho II" and "Ortho III" is flexible and can be arranged according to your personal preference.

Orthopedics I

Total hours: 40 
Course language: English
Program Director/Course Instructor Master's: University Prof. Dr. Haithem AM Farghali
Maximum number of participants: 10
Price for all five days: 2,199 EUR plus 19% VAT.
Course location: Idar-Oberstein
Date: 26.08.-30.08.2024

Overview of the Small Animal Orthopedics Course I

This veterinary orthopedic course is designed for practicing veterinarians who wish to expand their knowledge of orthopedic conditions in small animals. This week's focus is on lameness diagnosis: this includes the functional anatomy of the musculoskeletal system, differentiating between normal and abnormal gaits, the appropriate use of diagnostic imaging techniques, as well as degenerative and inflammatory joint diseases, including osteoarthritis, and musculoskeletal disorders in growing dogs.

Learning objectives Small Animal Orthopedics Course I

Upon completion of this course, participants will achieve the following:

  • Recognizing and describing lameness in dogs.
  • Selection of appropriate diagnostic procedures and interpretation of the findings.
  • Knowledge of the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs.

Course program (subject to change)Small Animal Orthopedics Course I

Course schedule

Course schedule for the day

Time activity
08:45 – 09:00 Introduction / Welcome
09:00 – 09:45 Anatomy of the forelimbs (proximal muscles and tendons)
09:45 – 10:15 Anatomy of the forelimbs (distal muscles and tendons)
10:15 – 10:30 Neurovascular supply of the forelimbs
10:30 – 10:45 Coffee break
10:45 – 11:30 Anatomy of the hind limbs (pelvis, hip joint, knee tendons)
11:30 – 12:00 Anatomy of the hind limb (knee joint anatomy and tarsus/Achilles tendon)
12:00 – 12:15 Neurovascular supply of the hind limb
12:15 – 13:15 Lunch break
13:15 – 14:15 Orthopedic examination of the general and forelimbs
14:15 – 14:45 Orthopedic examination of the hind limb
14:45 – 15:00 Coffee break
15:00 – 15:30 Neurological examination
15:30 – 16:30 Normal gait of a dog
Course schedule for the second day

Day Two

Time activity
09:00 – 09:45 Radiography – Important aspects of image quality/positioning
09:45 – 10:45 Radiography – Image Reading
10:45 – 11:00 Coffee break
11:00 – 12:00 CT and MRI imaging – The added benefits
12:00 – 12:30 cases
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch break
13:30 – 14:00 Pathophysiology of osteoarthritis
14:00 – 14:45 Nutraceuticals and other joint supplements
14:45 – 15:15 New therapies
15:15 – 15:30 Coffee break
15:30 – 16:00 Total joint replacement
16:00 – 16:30 Other forms of arthritis
16:30 – 17:15 Physiotherapy as a way to improve the quality of life for older dogs
Schedule for the third day

Day Three

Time activity
09:00 – 09:20 Fetal development
09:20 – 10:00 Nutrition of young animals
10:00 – 11:00 Orthopedic diseases in young animals and nutritional problems
11:00 – 11:15 Coffee break
11:15 – 11:45 Movement during the development of the musculoskeletal system
11:45 – 12:30 How can an overweight dog lose weight? Tips and tricks
12:30 – 13:00 Follow-up – CASUS Case
Schedule for the fourth day

Day Four

Time activity
08:30 – 09:00 brainstorming
09:00 – 10:30 Preparation of the forelimbs
10:30 – 10:45 Coffee break
10:45 – 12:15 Section of the hind limb
12:15 – 13:15 Lunch break
13:15 – 14:45 Group 1 – Lameness Analysis
Group 2 – Orthopedic Examination
14:45 – 15:00 Coffee break
15:00 – 16:30 Group 1 – Orthopedic Examination
Group 2 – Lameness Analysis
16:30 – 17:30 Arthrocentesis
17:30 Dinner together
Schedule for the fifth day

Day five

Time activity
09:00 – 10:00 Introduction to ultrasound diagnostics in orthopedics
10:00 – 10:15 Coffee break
10:15 – 12:00 Ultrasound examinations in orthopedics
12:00 – 13:00 Lunch break
13:00 – 13:45 How to interpret a common tap
13:45 – 14:45 Group 1: How to apply a proper bandage
Group 2: Practical Cytology - Case Discussion
14:45 – 15:00 Coffee break
15:00 – 16:00 Group 1: Practical Cytology Case Discussion
Group 2: How to apply a proper bandage

Orthopedics II

Total hours: 40 
Course language: English
Program Director/Course Instructor Master's: University Prof. Dr. Haithem AM Farghali
Maximum number of participants: 10
Price for all five days: 2,199 EUR plus 19% VAT.
Course location: Idar-Oberstein
Date: 16.09.-20.09.2024

Overview of the Small Animal Orthopedics II course

In this module, we focus on orthopedic diseases and surgical procedures of the posterior extremities. We offer a detailed overview of the anatomy, causes, and latest treatment approaches for each major joint – hip, knee, and ankle. We will discuss various surgical procedures, such as hip-knee joint surgery, the iliofemoral sling, extracapsular suture techniques, and Achilles tendon repair.

Advanced techniques such as DPO (double pelvic osteotomy) or total hip replacement are only demonstrated. Successful completion of Ortho I is required before you can participate in Ortho II.

Learning objectives Small Animal Orthopedics Course II

Upon completion of the course, participants will:

  1. to be up-to-date with the latest knowledge in order to make accurate diagnoses,
  2. be fully informed about current treatment options,
  3. Safely apply basic surgical procedures and perform complex or advanced cases yourself or refer them to specialists.

Course program (subject to change)Small Animal Orthopedics Course II

Course program: Day one – Hip joint

Day one – hip joint

Time activity
09:00 – 09:30 Registration, welcome and introduction
09:30 – 09:45 Hip joint – an overview of the anatomy
09:45 – 10:15 Hip dysplasia – pathogenesis
10:15 – 10:45 Hip dysplasia – Clinical signs
10:45 – 11:15 Coffee break
11:15 – 12:15 Hip dysplasia – diagnosis (including early detection)
12:15 – 12:30 Hip dysplasia – therapy (conservative)
12:30 – 13:15 Hip dysplasia – Therapeutic measures (symphysiodesis, DPO)
13:15 – 14:15 Lunch break
14:15 – 15:00 Hip dysplasia – Therapeutic measures (THR)
15:00 – 15:15 Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease – pathogenesis and diagnostics
15:15 – 15:45 Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease – Treatment strategies (conservative – stem cells, total hip replacement, femoral head resection and resection)
15:45 – 16:15 Coffee break
16:15 – 16:30 Femoral dislocation – Pathogenesis
16:30 – 16:45 Femoral dislocation – diagnosis
16:45 – 17:45 Femoral dislocation – treatment options (conservative, various treatment techniques), prognosis
17:45 Welcome reception
Day Two of hip joint (wet lab)

Day Two of hip joint (wet lab)

Time activity
09:00 – 10:30 Surgical approach to the hip joint: craniolateral iliofemoral sling, toggle pin, trochanteric osteotomy and traction band fixation
10:30 – 11:00 Coffee break
11:00 – 12:30 Femoral head and neck resection, closure
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch break
13:30 – 14:00 Symphysiodesis, DPO demonstration
14:00 – 15:00 Achilles tendon repair including transarticular grafting and external fixation
15:00 – 15:30 Coffee break
15:30 – 15:45 Knee joint – an overview of the anatomy
15:45 – 16:15 Cruciate ligament tear + meniscus injury – Pathogenesis/Biomechanics
16:15 – 17:00 Cruciate ligament tear + meniscus injury – diagnostics
Day three (knee joint)

Day three (knee joint)

Time activity
09:00 – 09:30 brainstorming
09:30 – 10:15 Cruciate ligament tear + meniscus injury – treatment (meniscus resection, extracapsular and intracapsular)
10:15 – 10:45 Coffee break
10:45 – 11:30 Cruciate ligament tear – treatment (osteotomies)
11:30 – 13:00 TPLO – Preoperative Planning (Theory and Exercises)
13:00 – 14:00 Lunch break
14:00 – 14:45 Polytraumatic knee injuries (lateral ligament injuries +/- cruciate ligament and meniscus involvement)
14:45 – 15:15 Muscle and tendon avulsions (gastrocnemius, extensor muscle of the long finger, ligamentum patellae)
15:15 – 15:45 Coffee break
15:45 – 16:15 Patellar luxation – pathogenesis
16:15 – 16:45 Patellar luxation – diagnosis
16:45 – 17:45 Patellar luxation – therapy (trochleaplasty, tibial tuberosity osteotomy, corrective osteotomies)

It should be noted that the TPLO section can only provide an overview. For a detailed detailed training, we recommend our special TPLO courses.

Day Four (Wet Lab Knee Joint)

Day Four (Wet Lab Knee Joint)

Time activity
09:00 – 10:30 Knee arthrotomy (inspection, cleaning, meniscus repair) Intracapsular ligament repair (over-the-top/ZLig) Extracapsular ligament repair
10:30 – 11:00 Coffee break
11:00 – 12:30 Trochlear wedge and/or block resection, transposition of the tibial tuberosity
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch break
13:30 – 15:00 TPLO demonstration
15:00 – 15:30 Coffee break
15:30 – 17:00 ZLig demonstration
Day five

Day five

Time activity
08:00 – 08:30 brainstorming
08:30 – 08:45 Ankle joint – an overview of the anatomy
08:45 – 09:00 Ankle joint – diagnostics
09:00 – 09:30 OCD – Foot and Knee Joint – Pathogenesis and Diagnosis
09:30 – 10:15 OCD – Foot and knee joint – Treatment (conservative and surgical)
10:15 – 10:45 Coffee break
10:45 – 11:15 Achilles tendon rupture + dislocation of the superficial digital flexor muscle (pathogenesis, treatment)
11:15 – 12:00 Collateral ligament injury
12:00 – 13:00 Lunch break
13:00 – 14:00 Tarsal instability and treatment options (pantarsal arthrodesis, partial arthrodesis)
14:00 – 14:30 cases
14:30 – 14:45 Coffee break
14:45 – 15:30 Quiz (Summary)
15:30 – 16:00 Feedback and farewell

Orthopedics III

Total hours: 40 
Course language: English
Program Director/Course Instructor Master's: University Prof. Dr. Haithem AM Farghali
Maximum number of participants: 10
Price for all five days: 2,199 EUR plus 19% VAT.
Course location: Idar-Oberstein
Date: 21.10.-25.10.2024

Overview of the Small Animal Orthopedics III course

This module focuses on the orthopedic challenges of the forelimbs, including the shoulder, elbow, and carpal joints, as well as tendon and muscle injuries. Participants gain in-depth insights into the anatomy and causes of these conditions, learn how to make accurate diagnoses, and become familiar with the latest conservative and surgical treatment methods.

We will introduce you to the most common surgical techniques for each part of the body and give you the opportunity to practice them. A special focus will be placed on a day in the laboratory, dedicated entirely to learning minimally invasive surgery, such as arthroscopy of the elbow and shoulder joints.

Please note that successful completion of the Ortho I course is a prerequisite before you can continue with Ortho III.

Learning objectives Small Animal Orthopedics Course III

Upon completion of the course, each participant will:

  1. be equipped with the latest knowledge to be able to make reliable diagnoses,
  2. be fully up-to-date on the latest treatment methods,
  3. master the common surgical procedures and be able to treat more complex or specialized cases themselves or, if necessary, refer them to specialists.

Course program (subject to change) – Orthopedics course for small animals

First day

First day

Time activity
09:00 – 09:30 Registration, welcome and introduction
09:30 – 10:00 Forelimb lameness – is it a problem of the shoulder, elbow, or distal limbs?
10:00 – 10:45 Lameness of the forelimbs – could it be a neurological disease?
10:45 – 11:00 Coffee break
11:00 – 11:15 Anatomy / Biomechanics – Shoulder joint
11:15 – 12:00 OCD of the shoulder joint
12:00 – 12:45 Muscle injuries of the shoulder joint and physiotherapy – Part I
12:45 – 13:45 Lunch break
13:45 – 15:15 Muscle injuries of the shoulder joint and physiotherapy – Part II
15:15 – 15:30 Biceps tendon rupture/biceps tendon vaginitis, supraspinatus tendinopathy
15:30 – 15:45 Coffee break
15:45 – 16:15 Medial instability
16:15 – 17:00 Shoulder dislocation
Day Two

Day Two

Time activity
09:00 – 09:30 Follow-up session
09:30 – 09:45 Anatomy of the elbow joint
09:45 – 10:15 Biomechanics of the elbow joint
10:15 – 10:30 Coffee break
10:30 – 11:30 Etiopathogenesis of elbow dysplasia
11:30 – 11:45 Diagnosis of elbow dysplasia
11:45 – 12:15 Treatment of IOHC
12:15 – 13:15 Lunch break
13:15 – 14:00 Treatment of elbow incongruity – Ulnar osteotomies, SHO, PAUL
14:00 – 14:45 Coronoid disease and OCD – what is the best course of action?
14:45 – 15:00 Flexor enthesopathy – is it important to treat?
15:00 – 15:30 UAP – Fixation or not?
15:30 – 15:45 Coffee break
15:45 – 16:30 Elbow dislocation
16:30 – 17:00 Partial or complete elbow prosthesis
Day Three

Day Three

Time activity
09:00 – 09:30 Introduction to shoulder arthroscopy
09:30 – 10:15 Dry run
10:15 – 10:30 Coffee break
10:30 – 12:30 Shoulder arthroscopy
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch break
13:30 – 14:00 Introduction to elbow arthroscopy
14:00 – 15:30 Elbow joint arthroscopy
15:30 – 15:45 Coffee break
15:45 – 17:15 Elbow joint arthroscopy
Day Four

Day Four

Time activity
09:00 – 10:30 Surgical approaches to the shoulder joint (caudolateral, cheli), OCD of the shoulder joint, biceps tendinectomy, infraspinatus contracture
10:30 – 10:45 Coffee break
10:45 – 12:15 medial shoulder joint instability (medial insertion)
12:15 – 13:15 Lunch break
13:15 – 14:45 Surgical approach to the elbow joint (medial, lateral), coronoidectomy
14:45 – 15:00 Coffee break
15:00 – 16:00 Ulna osteotomy bioblique, distal
16:00 – 17:00 Carpal joint instability
Day five

Day five

Time program
09:00 – 09:30 Follow-up session
09:30 – 09:45 Anatomy / Biomechanics – Carpal Joint
09:45 – 10:30 Hyperextension injury
10:30 – 10:45 Coffee break
10:45 – 11:15 Abductor pollicis longus – a cause of lameness?
11:15 – 12:00 Cases – Discussion
12:00 – 12:15 Physiotherapy for carpalxia syndrome
12:15 – 13:15 Lunch break
13:15 – 13:30 Carpal hyperflexion syndrome
13:30 – 14:30 Cases – Discussion
14:30 – 15:15 CASUS case
15:15 – 15:30 Coffee break
15:30 – 16:00 Goodbye

Summary of the Small Animal Orthopedics Course I-III

Are you a veterinarian looking to expand your knowledge in small animal orthopedics? Then the specialized courses offered by the doc4pets Academy in Idar-Oberstein are just what you need!

Our academy stands for quality and practical relevance in veterinary continuing education. With our courses in small animal orthopedics, we offer you the opportunity to deepen your expertise and stay up-to-date with the latest scientific advancements. Whether it's diagnostic procedures, treatment methods, or aftercare – with us, you'll learn everything you need for a successful small animal orthopedic practice.

The courses are specifically tailored to the needs of practicing veterinarians. They take place in modern, well-equipped facilities where you will not only acquire theoretical knowledge but also apply it directly to practical examples. Our experienced instructors are themselves practicing veterinarians with many years of experience in orthopedics. They are happy to share their knowledge and practical experience with you and are available to answer all your questions.

Our courses cover a wide range of orthopedic topics. These include, among others:

  • Diagnosis and treatment of joint diseases
  • Orthopedic surgery in small animals
  • Treatment strategies for bone fractures
  • Rehabilitation and physiotherapy after orthopedic surgery

In addition to imparting specialist knowledge, we place great emphasis on the exchange of experiences among participants. In our courses, you will meet like-minded individuals with whom you can discuss experiences, challenges, and solutions.

The doc4pets Academy in Idar-Oberstein is easily accessible and offers a pleasant learning environment in a friendly atmosphere. We ensure that you feel comfortable with us and can fully concentrate on your professional development.

Don't miss the opportunity to expand your expertise in small animal orthopedics and enhance your professional skills. Register for one of our courses today and become part of the doc4pets community!

Our "Small Animal Orthopedics Course I-III" is a comprehensive continuing education program that offers you the opportunity to deepen your expertise in small animal orthopedics and expand your skills as a veterinarian. With a total of four courses in this area, we offer a wide range of topics, from fundamental concepts to advanced techniques.

In every "Small Animal Orthopedics Course," you will receive in-depth information on diagnostic procedures, treatment methods, and preventative measures to promote the health and well-being of your animal patients. Our experienced instructors are experts in their field and will support you in solidifying your knowledge through practical insights and hands-on exercises.

Whether you're interested in surgical procedures, physiotherapy approaches, or the latest developments in small animal orthopedics, our "Small Animal Orthopedics Course I-III" offers the right continuing education program for every participant. Don't miss the opportunity to expand your expertise and improve your career prospects – register for a "Small Animal Orthopedics Course" today and invest in your professional future!

Visit our website to learn more about our current course offerings, dates, and registration options. We look forward to welcoming you to one of our courses and expanding your professional expertise in small animal orthopedics together.