Elbow Dysplasia Treatment

The Facts

• Elbow dysplasia is the malformation or deforming of a dog's elbow joint. Symptoms include lameness and pain at the elbow joint when it is moved. It can be caused by any one or a combination of four developmental abnormalities. Elbow dysplasia has a genetic component and is often inherited. It is usually found in large breeds like Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers and Newfoundlands. Treatments for elbow dysplasia include surgery, medication and other forms of therapy.

Arthrotomy

• The standard surgical treatment option for elbow dysplasia is arthrotomy. In this form of surgery, a veterinarian makes an incision directly into the dog's elbow joint. She then removes the loose bone fragments that have been causing the dog pain. Arthrotomy has been shown to be as effective as other treatment options in relieving the pain and lameness in dogs with elbow dysplasia.

Arthroscopic Surgery

• Arthroscopic surgery is a developing treatment for elbow dysplasia. The operating veterinarian's goal is the same as in arthrotomy: to surgically remove bone fragments from the affected joint. Arthroscopic surgery offers benefits over traditional surgery. It is less invasive and requires less recovery time for the dog after surgery. There are a limited number of veterinary clinics that offer it as a treatment, so it is the most difficult solution for pet owners to pursue.

Other

• If surgery isn't an option for a dog with elbow dysplasia, there are other alternatives. These treatments don't address the underlying causes of elbow dysplasia but they can relive the symptoms. If the dog is overweight, a diet can help lessen the stress put on the joint and reduce pain. Non-weight bearing exercises like swimming can help strengthen the joint and improve flexibility.

Medical

• There are medical options for treating elbow dysplasia that don't involve surgery. Aspirin can help to relieve pain and stop inflammation in the joint. If lameness tends to manifest after exercise, giving the dog pain relievers beforehand can help prevent it. If surgery and medical treatments fail to improve the dog's condition, there is a final surgical option: elbow arthrodesis, in which a dog's elbow joint is fused. Although this procedure stops the pain of elbow dysplasia, it also eliminates movement and is the treatment of last resort.