Shoulder Arthroscopy
OCD is most commonly seen in the proximal humerus of the shoulder joint. The articular cartilage flap can be easily identified and precisely removed arthroscopically by introducing instruments through a separate instrument portal.
The underlying necrotic bed is debrided to subchondral bone through the same portal. Detached flap fragments can be located more reliably and adjacent hyperplastic synovium can be removed. Most dogs have minimal surgical lameness (if any) allowing both shoulders to be operated simultaneously. No sutures are required.
The underlying necrotic bed is debrided to subchondral bone through the same portal. Detached flap fragments can be located more reliably and adjacent hyperplastic synovium can be removed. Most dogs have minimal surgical lameness (if any) allowing both shoulders to be operated simultaneously. No sutures are required.
Biceps tendon injury is often a diagnostic dilemma with normal radiographic findings. Arthroscopy is the most reliable method for definitive diagnosis of bicipital tenosynovitis and partial biceps tendon tears. Fortunately, these lesions can also be completely treated arthroscopically as well with biceps tendon release.
Shoulder instability is another cause of occult shoulder lameness and can also be diagnosed and treated arthroscopically. Tears of the lateral glenohumeral ligament (see image at left) are typically undiagnosed without direct arthoscopic visualization. Tears of the medial glenohumeral ligament are also seen.
