Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis and osteochondritis dissecans in dogs

This condition affects the cartilage of certain joints in dogs. Its origin remains uncertain, but it may be secondary to damage to the blood vessels that irrigate the cartilage as a result of repeated micro-trauma. Other factors, such as dietary factors or over-rapid growth, are suspected but not proven. Finally, a hereditary cause is strongly suspected, as the condition mainly affects large male dogs: Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, etc.

Several stages of this disease have been described:

Osteochondrosis stage: This is the earliest stage. The cartilage becomes increasingly thick around the lesion as a result of disturbances in endochondral ossification, i.e. the bone plate beneath the cartilage.

Osteochondritis stage: at this stage, the cartilage cracks and partially lifts.

The osteochondritis dissecans stage: at this stage, the cartilage fragment detaches completely and is left loose in the joint. It forms a "joint mouse". This is the stage most often diagnosed.

How can I tell if my dog has osteochondrosis?

This condition mainly affects large dogs, especially males. It manifests itself as lameness of one or more limbs, appearing between 4 and 9 months of age. This anomaly can affect various joints: the shoulder (most common), elbow, knee, hock (ankle) and, much more rarely, the sacrum. When it affects the shoulder, the condition affects both legs in one case out of two.

Signs range from discomfort to pain when moving. The dog may restrict support of the limb, or even limp when walking or trotting. In more advanced stages, muscle wasting is visible.

If your dog shows signs of lameness or pain, a clinical examination by your veterinarian is essential. Following this examination, your veterinarian will most likely suggest X-rays, a CT scan or arthroscopy to establish a definitive diagnosis.

How osteochondritis is treated at the AgoraVet clinic

These conditions are treated surgically. It involves removal of the damaged cartilage and curettage of the underlying lesion. This is usually performed by arthroscopy, a less invasive technique. Following treatment, fibrocartilage fills the area. Its properties are close to those of the original cartilage.

In more severe and extensive cases, cartilage grafting may be considered. This can be performed using cartilage taken from another of the animal's joints, or using artificial cartilage.

Recovery is usually very satisfactory for shoulder lesions. In other joints, particularly knee osteochondritis, recovery depends on the age and size of the lesions.