Shoulder Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) in Dogs

What Is Shoulder Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD) In Dogs?

Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD)) of the shoulder (also called shoulder dysplasia) is a condition that affects the shoulder joint in dogs. In this condition, the cartilage covering the surfaces of the bones in the shoulder joint fails to develop correctly. Abnormal cartilage growth leads to the formation of small pieces of cartilage that break off and float inside the joint, causing pain and stiffness. Over time, this condition can lead to osteoarthritis and permanent damage to the joint. Therefore, surgery may be necessary for most dogs to repair the joint and restore its function.

Which Breeds Of Dogs Are Most Affected By OCD?

Dogs with shoulder dysplasia (OCD) usually begin showing symptoms between 4 and 12 months. Large or giant breed dogs, such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Labradors, are more likely to suffer from shoulder OCD.

What Is The Reason For OCD In Dogs?

The exact cause of shoulder OCD in dogs is not fully understood. It is thought to be related to the shoulder joint’s rapid growth and abnormal cartilage development. Several factors can trigger this, including genetics, nutrition, and environmental factors. Some dogs are also predisposed because of a family history of joint problems. In other dogs, shoulder OCD develops because they are fed a high-calorie diet that causes them to grow too quickly, making them vulnerable to this condition. In other cases, environmental factors, such as repetitive strain on the joint or injuries, may also play a role. Ultimately, the disease develops when the cartilage in the joint fails to develop correctly, leading to the formation of small pieces of cartilage that can break off and float inside the joint, causing pain and stiffness.

Symptoms Of Shoulder OCD In Dogs

One of the most common clinical symptoms of OCD in dogs is lameness in the affected front leg. The limping may be mild initially, with the dog showing a slight limp or hesitation when using the affected front leg. As the condition progresses, the limping may become more pronounced, with the dog showing a more pronounced limp or even refusing to use the front leg altogether.

Another common clinical symptom of shoulder OCD in dogs is pain and stiffness in the affected joint. This can cause the dog to appear uncomfortable or in pain when moving the affected front leg. They may show signs of discomfort, such as whining or crying when touched or handled in the area of the affected joint. In some cases, symptoms of stiffness, such as reluctance to move the affected front limb or holding the front leg in an unusual position, can also be noted.

When shoulder OCD is more advanced, the joint may become red, hot, and swollen due to an accumulation of fluid inside the joint.

In severe cases, the dog may also develop osteoarthritis, which can cause permanent damage to the joint and lead to chronic pain and stiffness.

Diagnosis

Our expert veterinary surgeons use a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and other diagnostic tests to diagnose shoulder OCD in dogs.

The first step in the diagnostic process is a thorough physical examination of the affected front leg. The veterinarian will carefully examine the joint, looking for signs of lameness, swelling, and warmth. They may also perform a series of tests, such as range of motion tests or joint palpation, to assess the function and stability of the joint.

Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, are done to evaluate the bones and cartilage in the joint. These tests can help determine the extent of the joint’s damage and identify any abnormalities in the cartilage or surrounding tissues.
In some cases, additional tests, such as blood tests or joint fluid analysis, may also be recommended to help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of lameness or joint pain.

Based on a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and other diagnostic tests, we can accurately diagnose the condition and develop an effective treatment plan to manage your pet’s symptoms and improve its quality of life.

Treatment of Shoulder OCD in Dogs

Treatment for shoulder OCD in dogs may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In mild cases, the veterinary orthopedic surgeon may recommend medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids, to reduce pain and inflammation in the joint. In more severe cases, the veterinary orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgical intervention to repair the damaged cartilage and restore the joint’s function. In all cases, the goal of treatment is to relieve the dog’s symptoms and prevent further damage to the joint.

Surgery for Shoulder OCD in Dogs

Surgical treatment of shoulder OCD in dogs is often considered the best option for managing this condition. Surgery can provide the most effective and long-lasting relief from the symptoms, such as lameness, pain, and stiffness in the affected joint.

One of the main reasons why surgical treatment is the best option for shoulder OCD is that it can address the underlying cause of the condition. The veterinary surgeon can help restore the joint’s normal function and prevent further damage by surgically removing any damaged or abnormal cartilage from the joint. This helps reduce pain and stiffness in the joint and improves the dog’s mobility and quality of life.

Another advantage of surgical treatment is that it can prevent complications, such as osteoarthritis, which can cause permanent damage to the joint. By addressing the underlying cause of the condition, the veterinary surgeon can help prevent the disease’s progression and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

In conclusion, surgical treatment is considered the best option for managing shoulder OCD in most dogs and providing long-term relief from the symptoms of this condition.

Aftercare After Shoulder OCD Surgery in Dogs

Following surgery, you should give all prescribed medications to ensure your pet’s pain is well-controlled and to prevent infection.

Exercise must be restricted for two months (8 weeks) following surgery.

• For the first two weeks, strict rest is necessary. Therefore, expect some confinement to a large crate or dog pen.
• Easy walking is helpful for the final six weeks, but no running or jumping to assist healing. The walks should be short at first (5-10 minutes 1-2 times a day).
• Then, in the third month, all dogs can gradually resume regular activity.

hysical therapy is also recommended after surgery to help your pet regain its happiest, healthiest self.

Additional resources are available in our Pet Recovery Room.

Prognosis

The prognosis after surgical treatment for shoulder OCD in dogs is typically excellent. This is because surgical intervention can provide the most effective and long-lasting relief from the symptoms, such as lameness, pain, and stiffness in the affected joint.

One of the main reasons the prognosis after surgical treatment is excellent is that it can address the underlying cause of shoulder OCD. By surgically removing any damaged or abnormal cartilage from the joint, the surgeon can help restore the joint’s normal function and prevent further damage. This can help reduce joint pain and stiffness and improve the dog’s mobility and quality of life.

Another reason why the prognosis after surgical treatment is excellent is that it can prevent the development of complications, such as osteoarthritis, which can cause permanent damage to the joint. By addressing the underlying cause of the condition, the surgeon can help to prevent the progression and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Finally, surgical treatment can provide long-lasting relief from the symptoms of shoulder osteochondrosis. While medications can help manage the condition’s symptoms, they do not address the underlying cause. By contrast, surgical treatment can provide more permanent relief from the symptoms and can help to improve the dog’s quality of life.

Overall, the prognosis after surgical treatment for shoulder osteochondrosis in dogs is excellent. Most dogs that undergo this procedure can fully recover and regain full function in the affected front limb.

My Dog Needs Shoulder OCD Surgery – Now What?

If your pet needs dog Shoulder OCD surgery, call or email us. Our veterinary surgeon will work with you and your family veterinarian to understand your dog’s overall health. Our team will advise whether surgery is the best option for your pet. If you decide the surgery is the best approach to restoring your pet’s health, the Surgipet team will promptly schedule the surgery.
Before, during, and after the surgery, you’ll be updated with all the information you need for a safe and speedy recovery. We also offer a wealth of resources right here on our website to help you care for your pet when we’re not there.