Shoulder OCD is a condition that affects young large breed dogs and causes lameness on the fore limbs.
This condition is best treated with arthroscopic surgery.
The recovery following the arthroscopic procedure is rapid.
The prognosis usually is excellent for full function of the operated limb(s).
What is it?
OCD is an abnormality in the transformation of cartilage to bone formation that occurs in growing animals. This can lead to the formation of a loose flap of cartilage in the joint (sometimes called a “joint mouse”) which can lead to degenerative joint disease (DJD) and pain.
It is not known what causes this to occur, but some factors that are thought to contribute are genetics, rapid growth and over nutrition, and trauma.
Clinical signs
OCD most often affects large breed dogs and lameness usually first appears around 5 to 8 months of age, but can show up later. Owners often note that their dog is stiff in the morning and after rest. The lameness becomes worse following exercise.
During a physical examination, a veterinarian may recognize pain or resistance to range of motion of the shoulder joint.
Diagnosis
One of the first things your veterinarian may recommend is radiographs (x-rays) of both shoulders —even if only one limb seems to be affected—because this disease is frequently in both shoulders. On radiographs, OCD may be appreciated as a depression in the contour of the bone on the head of the humerus (upper arm bone); see photo right of shoulder OCD - place cursor over image to remove markers. There may also be secondary signs of arthritis found on the radiographs, especially if the condition is left untreated for an extended period of time.
Although results of blood work and urinalyses are often normal, your veterinarian may recommend them to rule out other underlying diseases and to ensure your pet is a good surgical candidate.
Treatment
The most common form of treatment for dogs with lameness associated with OCD is removal of the cartilage flap, usually by arthroscopy. Arthroscopy allows the veterinary surgeon to visualize the joint, remove the flap of cartilage and help smooth out any lesions in the joint.
Many patients have OCD in both shoulders and we therefore frequently recommend scoping both shoulders, especially if there is any evidence of a problem on the contralateral shoulder on the x-rays.
Following this procedure, it will be important for you to limit your dog’s activity for the first 6-8 weeks. Most dogs are able to walk within the first day or so, but they should be limited to very short leash walks to urinate or defecate. Rehabilitation therapy may include cold packing the shoulder(s) for the first few days and warm packing for the next 10 to 14 days. Flexing and extending the joint after warm packing will help minimize stiffness. After that, a gradual increase in activity will generally be allowed.
Pain relieving medication such as an oral narcotic and an oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory may be prescribed for a short period of time.
Some dogs also benefit from a special diet that helps to promote joint health. These diets which contain omega fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, may help with joint pain.
Prognosis
Excellent prognosis following surgery is generally expected. About 90 to 95% of the patients that we treat regain full, pain-free function of the operated limb(s).
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Diagnosis