Developmental Diseases—Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)

Who is usually affected?
-Young dogs of large to giant breeds

What is happening?
-Abnormal maturation of the bone that supports cartilage within joints leads to cartilage thickening, cracking, and exposure of the underlying bone
-Swelling and pain result from the altered joint mechanics and cartilage destruction
-Arthritis develops
-Most commonly affected joints are the shoulder, elbow, knee (stifle), and ankle (hock)

Clinical signs you might notice in your pet
-Limping after rest or exercise
-Tiring easily with play
-Resting more than other dogs of similar age and breed, "mellow" puppy
-Head bobbing during walking or running
-Sitting crookedly with one leg held outward (though this can be normal for puppies)

X-ray appearance of OCD in the shoulder Click to enlarge X-ray appearance of OCD in the stifle Click to enlarge

Diagnosis
-Careful orthopedic examination to determine which joint(s) are affected
-X-rays are used to evaluate the condition of joint surfaces
-X-ray with a contrast liquid (arthrogram) may be needed to fully evaluate the shoulder joint

Surgical treatment
-Removal of the damaged cartilage (curettage)
-Surgery through small portals (arthroscopy) or a larger incision (arthrotomy) may be indicated

Special postoperative care
-Patient activity is generally limited for 4-6 weeks following surgery, allowing time for joint swelling to subside

Expected results after surgery
-Shoulder: Excellent results (pain relief and gradual return to a normal gait) are expected due to the relatively small area of cartilage usually involved and the loose fitting mechanical nature of the joint
-Elbow: Good results are expected unless the area of cartilage involved is very large
-Stifle: Good results are expected if the area of cartilage involved is in a non-weight bearing portion of the stifle; variable results are expected if the area of cartilage involved is in a weight bearing portion of the stifle (additional surgery may be indicated to decrease weight bearing on this site)
-Hock: Fair to poor results (incomplete pain relief and retention of some abnormal gait) are expected due to the relatively large area of cartilage usually involved and the tight fitting mechanical nature of the joint
-Moderate exercise, weight control and medication may be recommended for the long term management of optimal joint health