Our hospital offers OFA x-rays for identification of hip dysplasia in dogs. OFA is the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and is an organization that was created to aid breeders in helping reduce the incidence of hip dysplasia. Dogs must be over 2 years of age and the x-rays must be taken using general anesthesia for accurate diagnosis.
X-rays can be taken by any veterinarian (no special certification required) and then are submitted to the OFA to be evaluated by a radiologist for hip congruity, subluxation, the condition of the acetabulum, and the size, shape, and architecture of the femoral head and femoral neck. Three different radiologists review the x-rays and a score is given based on the dog's hip conformation relative to other dogs of the same age and breed.
OFA categories are graded as normal (excellent, good, fair), borderline dysplastic, or dysplastic (mild, moderate or severe). Dogs with hips scored as borderline or dysplastic are not eligible to receive OFA breeding status.
We also do x-rays of elbows and other OFA certification that doesn't require a board certified specialist (e.g. thyroid, patellas, etc.).
Please ask our staff if you have any questions about the OFA technique.
