Elbow dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is a condition involving multiple developmental abnormalities of the elbow-joint in the dog, specifically the growth of cartilage or the structures surrounding it.

[2] Elbow dysplasia is a significant genetically determined problem in many breeds of dog, often manifesting from puppyhood and continuing for life.

[1] This initial condition, known as a "primary lesion",[1] causes an abnormal level of wear and tear and gradual degradation of the joint, at times disabling or with chronic pain.

The most common cause is osteochondrosis, which is a disease of the joint cartilage, and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD or OD), the separation of a flap of cartilage from the joint surface[1] as a result of avascular necrosis, which in turn arises from failed blood flow in the subchondral bone.

All types of OCD of the elbow are most typically found in large breed dogs, with symptoms starting between the ages of 4 and 8 months.

The disease often affects both elbows (30 to 70 percent of the time), and symptoms include intermittent lameness, joint swelling, and external rotation and abduction of the paw.

The dogs are exercised regularly and given pain medication, and between the ages of 12 and 18 months the lameness will often improve or disappear.

[13] There are also fewer options if the replacement fails; arthrodesis (surgical fusion of the joint) can result in a pain-free but lame gait.

[11] The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals in the United States will grade elbow X-rays of dogs intended for breeding.