• Shoulder osteochondrosis dissicans (OCD) in young dogs

Shoulder OCD is often apparent on simple x-rays. The possibility of OCD being present can be investigated with contrast x-rays or arthroscopy. It can be treated with arthroscopy or open surgical management,. Cartilage fragments and flaps are removed. The site from which the cartilage originated can be encouraged to fill will with fibrocartilage by creating forage holes with a fine drill/pin, and recruiting a blood supply from the underlying  humeral head.

Shoulder OCD cases generally do well. There will inevitably be some degenerative joint disease, but this is generally well tolerated and manageable in the shoulder joint.

19th July 2014

 

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