Orthopedic Surgery Services at Summit Animal Hospital, Winterset, IA
Expert Orthopedic Surgery for Dogs and Cats
At Summit Animal Hospital, we provide specialized orthopedic surgery services for dogs and cats, ensuring the highest level of care for your pet’s musculoskeletal health. We are proud to collaborate with Dr. Joel Teachout, a highly skilled traveling surgeon from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, who brings extensive expertise in both orthopedic and advanced soft tissue surgeries.
Meet Dr. Joel Teachout
Dr. Joel Teachout is a renowned orthopedic surgeon with a strong background in veterinary surgery. His specialization in a variety of surgical techniques allows us to offer advanced care for your pet’s orthopedic and soft tissue needs.

Orthopedic Surgery Services
Our orthopedic surgery services include, but are not limited to:
- TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy): This procedure treats cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries in dogs by changing the dynamics of the knee to stabilize it without relying on the ligament.
- Lateral Suture Technique: A method for stabilizing the knee joint in dogs with CCL injuries by placing a suture outside the joint.
- Fracture Repair: Surgical intervention to mend broken bones and restore normal function.
- Medial and Lateral Patellar Luxation Repair: Surgery to correct the dislocation of the kneecap in dogs and cats.
- FHO (Femoral Head and Neck Ostectomy): Surgical procedure that removes the head and neck of the femur from a dog or cat to treat hip pain
Advanced Soft Tissue Surgery
In addition to orthopedic procedures, Dr. Teachout also performs advanced soft tissue surgeries, including:
- TECA (Total Ear Canal Ablation)
This surgery removes the ear canal in pets with chronic ear infections or tumors, providing relief from pain and recurrent issues. - Mesh Hernia Repair
Using a mesh implant, this procedure strengthens the area of a hernia to prevent recurrence. - Dermoid Removal
Surgical removal of abnormal skin growth on the cornea. - Tympanic Bulla Osteotomy
A procedure to treat middle ear infections or masses by opening the tympanic bulla, improving drainage and access to the affected area.
Benefits of Regular Dental Care
- Expert Care
Dr. Teachout’s extensive experience ensures that your pet receives the highest standard of surgical care. - Improved Mobility
Orthopedic surgeries can significantly enhance your pet’s mobility and quality of life. - Pain Relief
Surgical interventions can alleviate pain caused by injuries or chronic conditions. - Quick Recovery
Advanced techniques and post-operative care facilitate a smoother and faster recovery for your pet.


Schedule an Orthopedic Surgery Consultation
If your pet is experiencing mobility issues or has been diagnosed with a condition that may require surgery, contact Summit Animal Hospital at (515) 462-3711 to schedule an appointment. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and a healthier, happier, pain-free life for your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic and soft tissue surgeries are essential for addressing various health issues in pets. To help you better understand these procedures, we’ve compiled answers to some common questions.

What conditions can orthopedic surgery address?
Orthopedic surgery can treat conditions such as cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries, fractures, and patellar luxation. It helps improve mobility and alleviate pain.
Is my pet a candidate for surgery?
Our veterinary team, along with Dr. Teachout, will conduct a thorough assessment to determine if your pet is a suitable candidate for surgery. Factors considered include overall health, the severity of the condition, and expected outcomes.
How long is the recovery process?
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual pet. Generally, pets may require a few weeks to a few months for full recovery, with follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
Will my pet be in pain after surgery?
Pain management is a top priority. We will provide pain relief options to ensure your pet’s comfort and prevention of infections during the recovery period.