About Dr. Katie
Dr. Katie Hennessy is a 1989 graduate of the University of Minnesota and is the founder of our clinic. She has a special interest in advanced soft tissue and orthopedic surgery. Dr. Katie has completed the week-long AO-ASIF bone plating class at Ohio State, the Ex-fix course at Iowa State, and was certified to do TPLO surgery in the fall of 2003 in Oregon, and certified for TTA in 2008.
Upon completion of the TPLO course, Dr. Katie observed over 30 TPLO’s at the University of Minnesota before beginning to offer them at the Faribault facility. To date over 150 TPLO's have been performed here and all have done very well post-op with full return to function of the affected leg. Several dogs have had TPLO of both knees done in a staged timing and have returned to function fairly rapidly. We have recently begun offering TTA as an additional option for ACL repair. TTA vs. TPLO is a decision made after examinng the dog and discussing options with the family.
TPLO / TTA is the recommended surgery for all dogs over 90 pounds and 60-90 lb. dogs that are very active, or have performance careers, pre-existing arthritis or other orthopedic problems. Approximate cost for TPLO or TTA in 2009 is $1970-$2300 with meds. and required bloodwork, and $175 for the rechecks and post-op x-rays when done here.
In addition to TPLO Dr. Katie has done over 450 extra-capsular ACL repairs using monofilament line with the Securos crimping system to avoid knots. We have available bone eyelets to use for torn fabellar attachments and utilize isometric placement of the monofilament line. These dogs have also done very well particularly with the new isometric placement of line and the availibility of scoping to further examine the meniscus. Approximate cost is $950-$1100 for the surgery and rechecks.
STEM cell therapy is our newest service. Cost varies, but is in the $2500 range for 2 sedations, harvesting, fee to Vet-stem, injection, and 2 rechecks.
About our Staff
In addition to our five Veterinarians, Heartland Animal Hospital employs six Certified Veterinary Technicians and four Receptionist/Assistants. Our CVT’s provide excellent nursing care and personal service for both you and your pet. Our staff and Doctors attend twice the recommended CE required to stay on top of new developments and provide the best of care for your pet. Your pet will be well taken care of as if they were family!
