Canine Elbow Dysplasia and Fragmented Ulnar Coronoid Process (FCP) in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Fragmented medial ulnar coronoid processes (FCP) are a form of canine elbow dysplasia that is one of the most common causes of lameness in young dogs.

Hereditary diseases and forms of elbow dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia, a hereditary disease in dogs, occurs in various forms. These include fragmented medial ulnar coronoid process (FCP), isolated anconeal process (IPA), and osteochondrosis (OCD). All of these diseases are growth-related diseases that unfortunately cannot be cured.

FCP and OCD are among the most common causes of lameness in young dogs. They typically occur between four and five months when the dog is in the central growth phase.

Causes and prevalence of the disease

Male dogs are about twice as likely to become ill as females because they grow faster. Factors such as increased exercise and feeding with mineral supplements that accelerate growth can also contribute to the disease.

Certain breeds such as Labradors and Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, German Shepherds, Giant Schnauzers, Newfoundlands and Rottweilers are particularly susceptible to the disease. But mixed breeds also suffer from this form of dysplasia more often.

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Which dog breeds are particularly affected and why?

The incidence of elbow dysplasia is not evenly distributed across all dog breeds. Instead, the disease shows clear racial specificity. In fact, certain breeds of dogs are more likely to suffer from this disease due to their genetic disposition and body structure.

1. Labrador retrievers

Labrador Retrievers are one of the breeds most commonly affected by elbow dysplasia. This is due to this breed's genetic predisposition to this condition. Additionally, the size and weight of Labradors can also contribute to increasing the risk of elbow dysplasia.

2. Rottweilers

Rottweilers are also susceptible to elbow dysplasia. Similar to the Labrador Retriever, this is due to their genetic makeup as well as their size and weight, which can lead to increased stress on the joints.

3. Saint Bernard

St. Bernards are a large and heavy breed of dog that is prone to a number of joint problems, including elbow dysplasia. Their rapid growth and large weight can increase stress on joints and increase the risk of elbow dysplasia.

4. German Shepherds

German Shepherds are another breed commonly affected by elbow dysplasia. In this breed, the disease can be related to genetic factors, as well as to the body structure and the way these dogs are exercised and stressed.

5. Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are also prone to elbow dysplasia, primarily due to their genetic predisposition. The size and weight of the breed can also play a role here.

6. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are a large and heavy dog ​​breed that are prone to a variety of joint problems, including elbow dysplasia. The size, weight, and body structure of these dogs can cause increased stress on the joints and increase the risk of elbow dysplasia.

It is important to note that although these breeds are at increased risk of developing elbow dysplasia, any dog, regardless of breed, can suffer from this condition. Comprehensive breeding controls and targeted breeding programs are needed to reduce the prevalence of this disease in at-risk breeds.

Symptoms and diagnosis of FCP and OCD

FCP and OCD result in pain that can range from mild to severe lameness. If the disease occurs on both sides, a stiff gait and a reluctance to move may be observed.

The diagnosis of "elbow dysplasia" can only be made through a clinical examination of the dog. have been replaced by modern diagnostics such as computer tomography

Therapy and prognosis

Conservative treatment

Conservative treatment of elbow dysplasia in dogs aims to alleviate the clinical symptoms, improve the animal's quality of life and slow the progression of the disease. It includes several aspects:

1. Weight management: Overweight dogs are at higher risk of orthopedic diseases such as elbow dysplasia. The extra weight puts strain on joints and can worsen symptoms. Appropriate weight management, which includes a balanced diet and regular exercise, is therefore a central aspect of conservative treatment.
2. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation: Physiotherapy measures can help maintain or improve joint mobility, relieve pain and maintain or build muscle mass. This can include exercises to strengthen the muscles, massages, hydrotherapeutic measures such as underwater treadmills and targeted movement therapies.
3. Pain management: Elbow dysplasia in dogs is often associated with significant pain. Therefore, effective pain management is another important aspect of conservative treatment. This may include the administration of painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications, the use of special diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, or alternative therapies such as acupuncture.
4. Modification of physical activity: It may be necessary to adjust the dog's physical activity to avoid further damage to the affected joint. This may mean that certain activities that place high stress on the joints, such as jumping or fast running, should be limited or avoided. Instead, the focus should be on controlled, gentle movements, such as those found when walking or swimming.

It is important to note that conservative treatment of canine elbow dysplasia is an ongoing process that requires close collaboration between the veterinarian and the dog owner. It is also important that the treatment is tailored to the individual dog, as the effectiveness of the different measures can vary from dog to dog. In severe cases of elbow dysplasia or when conservative treatment does not provide sufficient improvement, surgical intervention may be considered.

Surgical therapy for elbow dysplasia

In severe cases of elbow dysplasia, surgical treatment may be the necessary measure to relieve the dog's suffering and improve its quality of life. Below we present various surgical procedures that can be used for elbow dysplasia.

1. Removal of a fragment

Removal of a fragment, also called fragmentectomy, is a commonly used method to treat FCP. The loose fragment that causes pain and inflammation in the joint is surgically removed. The operation is carried out arthroscopically, i.e. through small incisions in the skin and using a camera, which minimizes the stress on the animal.

2. Subtotal coronoidectomy

Subtotal coronoidectomy is a specialized surgical procedure designed specifically to treat FCP. During this operation, the medial coronoid process of the ulna, which is affected, is almost completely removed. The goal is to reduce stress on the joint and relieve pain.

3. Biceps Release Procedure (BURP)

The Biceps Release Procedure is a surgical procedure used to treat FCP and other forms of elbow dysplasia. During this surgery, the biceps tendon attachment is released at the radius to reduce pressure on the joint and improve mobility.

4. Sliding Humeral Osteotomy (SHO)

Sliding Humeral Osteotomy is a more complex surgery designed to distribute stress across the elbow joint, preventing pain and further damage. The upper arm bone (humerus) is cut at a certain angle and then fixed in a new position.

5. Proximal Abducting Ulnar Osteotomy (PAUL)

PAUL surgery is a procedure for the treatment of elbow dysplasia that relieves pressure on the elbow by targeted displacement and fixation of the ulnar bone. This procedure may be particularly helpful in dogs with severe joint incongruence.

6. Double Oblique Osteotomy according to Fitzpatrick

The Fitzpatrick Double Oblique Osteotomy is an advanced method for treating elbow dysplasia. This involves cutting the ulna bone in two places and fixing it in a new position to allow for better fit and function of the joint.

Each of these surgeries requires specific aftercare and rehabilitation to achieve the best possible result. It is important that the dog is carefully cared for after surgery and its movement is controlled. Physiotherapy and targeted exercise training can support the healing process and help restore mobility and strength to the joint.

Aftercare and rehabilitation

After surgery, it is important that the dog receives adequate rest to aid healing. At the same time, gentle exercise therapy is beneficial to maintain joint mobility and prevent muscle breakdown. After about two to three weeks, the exercise program can be slowly increased.

The prognosis after a successful operation is generally good. With proper follow-up care and continued physical therapy, most dogs can regain near-normal mobility. However, some dogs may still experience progressive osteoarthritis.

prevention

Preventive measures can reduce the risk of developing FCP and OCD in susceptible dogs. These include:

1. Healthy diet: A balanced and nutrient-rich food that does not accelerate growth unnecessarily is beneficial.
2. Regular exercise: Moderate and regular exercise can help support healthy growth and prevent overuse of joints.
3. Early diagnosis: Regular veterinary examinations can identify early signs of illness and provide timely intervention.
4. Breeding selection: For breeds that are susceptible to these diseases, care should be taken when breeding to use healthy parents in order to minimize the risk of inheritance.

It is important to note that these measures do not guarantee that a dog will not develop FCP or OCD, but they can reduce the risk and help the dog live as long and healthy a life as possible.

Frequently asked questions about elbow dysplasia in dogs

Summary of elbow dysplasia in dogs

Elbow dysplasia in dogs is a complex orthopedic disease consisting of various developmental disorders and anatomical changes in the elbow joint. Canine elbow dysplasia involves abnormal development of the elbow joint, which can lead to pain, lameness, and ultimately chronic osteoarthritis.

There are various factors that can contribute to the development of elbow dysplasia in dogs. In addition to genetic factors, environmental conditions, diet and physical stress can also play a role. For example, a rapid growth phase in large and fast-growing dog breeds is often associated with the development of elbow dysplasia in dogs.

The diagnosis of elbow dysplasia in dogs is usually made through a combination of clinical examinations and imaging tests such as X-rays or computed tomography (CT). When testing for elbow dysplasia in dogs, the affected animal is examined for signs of pain and restricted movement, and x-rays or CT scans are taken to detect changes in the joint.

Treatment for elbow dysplasia in dogs depends on the severity of the disease and the dog's overall health. It can include conservative measures such as physical therapy, weight control and pain management, but also surgical interventions if the disease has progressed and is severely affecting the dog's quality of life.

It is important to emphasize that the prognosis of canine elbow dysplasia is variable and depends on many factors, including the severity of the disease, the timing of diagnosis, and the type of treatment. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the quality of life of a dog with elbow dysplasia can often be significantly improved.

Regarding the prevention of elbow dysplasia in dogs, it is important to rely on comprehensive breeding controls and targeted breeding programs to reduce the prevalence of this disease in at-risk breeds. In addition, dog owners should ensure that their pets have a balanced diet and exercise appropriately in order to minimize the risk of elbow dysplasia in dogs.

Canine elbow dysplasia is a serious condition that requires appropriate medical attention. By better understanding this disease and taking appropriate prevention and treatment measures, dog owners can help minimize their animals' suffering and improve their quality of life.