Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is a syndrome that includes several inherited conditions that lead to degenerative joint disease of the elbow in large and giant breeds.  Four developmental abnormalities are included in this syndrome, Ununited aconeal process (UAP), fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP), osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), and joint incongruity.  These abnormalities can cause progressive lameness, muscle atrophy, and pain.  Diagnosis is based on physical exam and radiographic, CT, or MRI findings.  Treatment is determined by the stage of progression affecting the dog.