Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

What is Elbow Dysplasia?

Elbow dysplasia is a common condition that primarily affects medium to large dog breeds. It manifests as lameness in one or both forelimbs and can significantly affect the quality of life of affected dogs.

Dysplasia encompasses several distinct abnormalities: ununited anconeal process, fragmented medial coronoid process, osteochondrosis of the humeral trochlea and joint incongruence.

Lateral radiograph of an elbow affected by dysplasia

What are the Causes of Elbow Dysplasia?

The causes of elbow dysplasia are primarily genetic. Certain bloodlines show a higher predisposition. However, environmental factors also contribute to the development of this condition, including:

• Nutrition: An excess of calories, calcium or protein can promote the development of dysplasia.
• Trauma: Injuries to the growth cartilage can affect normal bone growth.
• Slippery surfaces: Slippery floors can cause excessive pressure on growing cartilage.

These causes can lead to osteochondral lesions or a disparity between the growth of the radius and ulna — two bones that must normally be of compatible lengths for harmonious development of the elbow joint.

What are the Symptoms of Elbow Dysplasia?

The symptoms of elbow dysplasia vary, but the most common are:

• Lameness: This can appear as early as 4 to 5 months of age. If both elbows are affected, lameness may be bilateral.
• Pain on flexion: Dogs show pain when flexing and extending the joint.
• Joint swelling: As arthritis develops, the elbow may appear swollen.

The severity of symptoms can vary: some dogs are mildly affected, while others show severe lameness and significant daily discomfort.

How to Know if my Dog has Elbow Dysplasia?

Elbow dysplasia is diagnosed by radiography, often performed in cases of lameness or in dogs intended for breeding. A preliminary radiograph can be taken from as early as 4.5 months if dysplasia is suspected.

Prevention

It is recommended to assess the incidence of dysplasia within bloodlines. Breeding dogs should be selected to avoid passing on this condition. Genetics plays an essential role, but a balanced diet and an appropriate environment are equally important for preventing dysplasia.

What are the Treatments for Elbow Dysplasia?

Surgical Treatment

Surgical treatment can be performed from a young age to limit the development of arthritis. This procedure aims to correct bone malformations to restore better joint function.

Medical Treatment

Medical treatment is used to relieve arthritis and associated pain. It includes:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs: To reduce pain and inflammation.
• Dietary supplements: Chondroprotective agents help slow the progression of arthritis.
• Weight management and appropriate exercise: To avoid excessive pressure on the joint.

The Different Types of Elbow Dysplasia

Ununited Anconeal Process

This condition is caused by insufficient ulna growth, which prevents normal fusion of the anconeal process with the olecranon. It leads to instability and the development of arthritis.

Elbow showing an ununited anconeal process

Fragmented Medial Coronoid Process

Resulting from excessive ulna growth, this condition places pressure on the coronoid process, which may fragment, causing pain and arthritis.

Elbow showing fragmentation of the medial coronoid process

Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Trochlea

This type of dysplasia is caused by a disturbance in cartilage development, leading to the detachment of cartilaginous fragments and affecting joint movement.

Elbow showing osteochondrosis of the humeral trochlea

Joint Incongruence

Joint incongruence is a poor fit between the joint surfaces, which can cause pain and arthritis. It may be caused by a difference in length between the radius and ulna.

The three types of joint incongruence