Osteochodrosis (OC) is a developmental orthopedic disease.  OC occurs when there is a disturbance in the process of bone growth from the ends of bones.  The bone develops abnormally underneath the cartilage, and the cartilage over that area of abnormal bone growth becomes necrotic, soft and susceptible to trauma.  This may expand and undermine an area of cartilage, resulting in a flap.  This is referred to as osteochondritis dessicans (OCD).  The flap will occasionally break free, resulting in a “joint mouse.”  These processes cause inflammation, joint pain and lameness.

OC is most commonly a problem in rapidly growing, large and giant breed male dogs.  Most affected dogs develop signs before one year of age.  An orthopedic examination often shows lameness, joint swelling and pain on manipulation of affected joints.  Radiographs of affected joints are commonly used to diagnose OC.

OC occurs most commonly in the shoulder joint.  It is also found in the elbow, knee, hip, tarsus (hock or ankle) and spine.  It can also be found in multiple joints.

Dogs that have signs of lameness and pain need surgery for OC regardless of the location.  For OC of the shoulder and elbow, we routinely perform arthroscopy.  A small camera is inserted into the joint, and instruments are inserted to curette, or remove, abnormal cartilage from the area.  OC lesions in other joints may be accessed by an open surgical procedure.

The prognosis for OC of the shoulder joint is excellent if treated early and appropriately.  The prognosis for other joints is more guarded but depends on a variety of factors.  Slowing the growth of large and giant breed dogs that are at-risk can be done by feeding appropriate diets, including puppy foods specifically formulated for large breed dogs, or by switching to an adult diet.