What is elbow dysplasia?
Elbow dysplasia is a group of diseases associated with abnormal development of the elbow joint in the growing dog. These include fragmented medial coronoid process, OCD of the medial humeral condyle, ununited anconeal process and incongruity of the elbow joint.
The most common form of elbow dysplasia is fragmentation of the medial coronoid process. This involves a small fragment of cartilage and bone loose in the joint that causes inflammation and degenerative change (arthritis).
Could my dog have elbow dysplasia?
Elbow dysplasia is most typically identified in young dogs between 5-18 months old. Many medium to large breed dogs can be effected, most notably Labradors, Retrievers, Rottweilers, German Shepards, and Bernese Mountain dogs.
Why does elbow dysplasia occur?
The exact cause of elbow dysplasia is not fully understood , but genetic factors combined with environmental factors (nutrition, growth rate, exercise) contribute to the process.
What are the signs these diseases?
Each type of elbow dysplasia can cause pain, lameness and stiffness. In some dogs symptoms may not be shown for many months or years.
|
Elbow dysplasia can occur in both elbows and so owners may report stiffness in both fore limbs. Lameness can occur acutely or be of a more insidious onset. Osteoarthritis, initiated by elbow dysplasia, may progress later in life to cause pain, stiffness and lameness.
How is elbow dysplasia diagnosed?
Manipulation and clinical examination of the joints can reveal characteristic discomfort and reduced range of motion. X-rays are the most common test used to help make a diagnosis, in some early forms of the disease changes seen on X-ray can be very subtle and only limited information obtained. A more accurate assessment can be made with Arthroscopy. This involves placing a camera into the joint through key-hole incision to explore the joint. Arthroscopy also provides the opportunity to remove cartilage / bone fragments in a minimally invasive manner.
How can the condition be treated?
If causing problems elbow dysplasia can be treated with removal of the fragmented coronoid arthroscopically. This can relieve pain and allow improved joint function. Retrieval of OCD abnormalities can be treated in a similar fashion. Joint incongruity and ununited anconeal process may be treated with corrective osteotomy.
|
|
