Ask the Expert
Developmental orthopedic disease: It’s not just hip dysplasia
Támara Da Costa Gómez, DVM, DACVS
Developmental orthopedic disease is a term used to describe a collection of conditions that occur as a puppy grows into an adult dog. This is different from congenital disease, which means present at birth, or hereditary disease, which means passed on from parent to offspring, and can occur any time. This can be confusing and frustrating as dedicated breeders and owners work to decrease the numbers of puppies born with these conditions and identify the ones that are.
One of the most common of these conditions is hip dysplasia. As the bones and muscles grow at different rates, laxity develops in the hips. Over time, the condition leads to arthritis. Hip dysplasia is caused by multiple genes so screening of the parents will decrease the risk, but not prevent it. Two parents with hips certified “good” by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals still have a 20% chance of producing puppies with hip dysplasia. PennHIP radiographs, available at 16 weeks of age, assess the risk of hip dysplasia and help determine whether medical or surgical intervention is necessary. Minimally invasive procedures in puppies under 24 weeks of age may prevent a big surgery later.
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Normal Hip |
Dysplastic Hip |
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a defect that develops in joints as cartilage turns to bone. These fragments of bone and cartilage become displaced in the joint and start to damage the normal joint surfaces. This “pebble in your shoe” effect leads to pain and inflammation in the joint, precursors to arthritis. OCD is found most commonly in the elbows and shoulders but can occur in the knees, ankles, and even along the spine. Through minimally invasive procedures like arthroscopy, we can improve both comfort and function in these joints.
Elbow dysplasia is a term used to describe several diseases seen in the elbows including fragmented coronoid processes, ununited anconeal processes, osteochondritis dissecans, or asynchronous (uneven) growth of the radius and ulna. These conditions are often bilateral, affecting both elbows, so the lameness noted may initially be subtle. Initial screening is done with radiographs but computer tomography (CT) or arthroscopy may be necessary for definitive diagnosis. Early intervention will slow the progression of arthritis and help these dogs lead more comfortable active lives.
 Unfortunately, we often do not see these cases until the arthritis is advanced and the lameness more severe. Once the arthritic changes occur in the bone, our goals are primarily pain management and to slow the progression of arthritis. Maintaining dogs at a lean body weight and early intervention are key to long term joint health in these patients. To learn more about these and other conditions, go the American College of Veterinary Surgeons website at www.acvs.org.
Prevention is always the best solution; however, this is not always possible. If your pet is diagnosed with hip dysplasia or any of the developmental orthopedic diseases, consult your primary care veterinarian and ask if a referral to a specialist would prove helpful.
Dr. Da Costa Gomez is a board certified veterinary surgeon and is available at C.A.R.E. full time. She welcomes consultations and/or referrals from your veterinarian in the service of your four legged companon. Referral appointments are made by calling (805) 899-CARE (2273). You may also log on to the C.A.R.E. web site for further information at www.carehospital.org. Best of health!
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