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Elbow dysplasia is a term for a group of conditions which affect the elbow joint when the dog is growing.<\/p>\n
The elbow joint is formed by the humerus, radius and ulna bones. The conditions included under elbow dysplasia are ununited anconeal process (UAP), fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP), osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) and joint incongruity.<\/p>\n
These can be seen in isolation or in combination. All of these conditions will lead to secondary osteoarthritis developing in the joint.<\/p>\n
Both the primary condition and the secondary osteoarthritis can cause lameness, so early investigation and treatment can be beneficial.<\/p>\n
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What are the signs and symptoms
of elbow dysplasia?<\/h2>\n
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Elbow dysplasia is first seen when the dog is growing and signs can be seen from about four months of age. Adults dogs can also present with the disease due to the secondary osteoarthritis that develops in the joint.<\/p>\n
Medium to large breeds are most commonly affected. Breeds with a high incidence of elbow dysplasia include Labrador retrievers, Golden retrievers, Rottweilers, German shepherd dogs, Bernese Mountain Dogs and Dogue de Bordeaux.<\/p>\n
The most common sign of elbow dysplasia is forelimb lameness. This is often worse when the dog gets up from rest or after heavier exercise.<\/p>\n
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\n- A curved saw is used to cut the tibia at premeasured points.<\/li>\n
- The cut piece of bone is then rotated to flatten the tibial plateau angle \u2013 the amount of rotation is calculated before surgery from the radiographs (x-rays).<\/li>\n
- The piece of bone is held in this position by a temporary pin.<\/li>\n
- A specialised plate is then applied to the inside aspect of the tibia, and screws are placed in both sections to hold the rotated bone in position until it fuses in its new place.<\/li>\n
- The temporary pin is then removed, and the soft tissues and skin are closed over the implants with sutures (stitches).<\/li>\n
- Radiographs are taken after the surgery to confirm the new angle of the stifle joint and ensure implant placement is satisfactory.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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How is it diagnosed?<\/h2>\n
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The diagnosis of elbow dysplasia is based on a combination of findings on examination and imaging.
The signalment \u2013 breed, age, sex \u2013 and history are also useful.<\/p>\n
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