Elbow Arthroscopy
Elbow dysplasia is a common cause of foreleg lameness. It is especially seen in large purebred dogs, but occasionally seen in medium and smaller breeds. The first radiographic findings are typically seen on the hyperflexed lateral view as a small osteophyte on the anconeal process. The use of arthroscopy for treatment of these developmental and degenerative processes of the canine elbow has become popular due to minimal invasiveness, low morbidity, outstanding joint visualization, and decreased operating time. Arthroscopy also allows both elbows to be operated at the same time as the condition usually affects both sides. The use of arthroscopy for treatment of fragmented coronoid process (FCP) and osteochondrosis dessicans (OCD) has become routine. Arthroscopy of the elbow can also be used for treatment of ununited anconeal process, therapy of osteoarthritis, and endoscopic assisted fracture reduction.
