Bilateral lesions may be treated by separate procedures performed 6 weeks apart in each elbow or simultaneously. In older animals, some controversy exists about the benefits of removal of the fragmented process, but removal is probably still indicated. Lameness may recur due to progressive secondary degenerative joint disease. Osteochondrosis is heritable in horses, pigs, man, and other species, and may be heritable in dogs. Osteochondrosis is a defect in endochondral ossification that results in abnormal subchondral bone development and may result in the formation of a cartilage flap in the joint.
Joint effusion is variable and variably palpated.
Lateral, medial or craniocaudal radiographs of the affected joint demonstrate a flattened or concave subchondral area. Contrast arthrography may be performed to delineate subtle dissecting lesions or cartilage flaps. The opposite joint should be radiographed since the disease is often bilateral. Cartilage flaps often do not form in the elbow. OC should be treated by opening the joint, removal of the cartilage flap if present, and deepening of the OC lesion to stimulate fibrocartilage growth.