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Elbow dysplasia is a broad term used to describe three different disease processes associated with the abnormal development of the elbow joint during growth. These processes are referred to as osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the medial humeral condyle, fragmented medial coronoid process (FCP), and ununited anconeal process (UAP). Although, the cause of elbow dysplasia is not fully understood, it is believed to have genetic and environmental components, i.e. nutrition, exercise and growth rate.

Lameness is usually first noted around 6 months of age and is most commonly seen in large to giant breed dogs such as, Bullmastiffs, German Shepherds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Labradors, Golden Retrievers and Rottweilers.

The success of surgery depends on a numbers of factors: the age of dysplasia development, the rate of progression, the age of the patient when symptoms are diagnosed and the degree of arthritis already present at the time of surgery. Surgery cannot reverse arthritis that is already present but can help halt its progression. Recovery from surgery generally takes about 6 to 8 weeks.

OCD of the elbow occurs on the medial condyle of the distal humerus. Clinical signs include intermittent lameness of one or both front legs and pain on manipulation of the elbow. Diagnosis is made through a physical exam and radiographic visualization of a defect on the humeral head. Once lameness is exhibited medical management is usually unsuccessful and most dogs require surgical removal of the cartilage flap.

Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP)

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The most common form of elbow dysplasia is the fragmented medial coronoid process of the ulna. The elbow joint is made up of the radial head, responsible for 80% of weight bearing, the medial and lateral coronoid processes of the ulna,which bears the remaining 20%. From about 12 to 20 weeks of age the medial coronoid process undergoes ossification (turning cartilage in bone). FCP is the result of unequal growth rates of the radius and ulna, either individually or together. The joint space between the ulna and humerus is narrower than the joint space between the radius and humerus. The resulting uneven pressure on the medial coronoid process can develop cracks or fragments of the coronoid process. Left untreated these loose bits of bone will lead to pain during movement and arthritis.

Ununited Anconeal Process(UAP)

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The anconeal process is a large piece of bone located at the growth plate at the top of the ulna. Normally, in growing dogs, this area will close or fuse between 16-24 weeks of age. An ununited anconeal process is the failure of the anconeus to fuse with the ulna. Instability within the joint leads to damage of the articular cartilage, lameness and arthritis of the elbow joint. Radiographs and a physical exam confirm the diagnosis. Surgical treatment is necessary to correct this condition and requires removal of the bony fragment.