If the lesion is large, an irregular subchondral bone defect or flattening of the articular surface of the medial condyle may be visible on the lateral view radiograph. Secondary, degenerative changes are usually present in dogs seven months of age and older. Approach to the elbow using an osteotomy of the medial epicondyle to excise and debride an ostochondritis disecans lesion. Approach to the medial aspect of the elbow using a muscle separating approach. Approach to the medial aspect of the elbow using a tenotomy of the pronator teres muscle.
Treatment involves excision of the cartilage flap and curettage of the subjacent subchondral bed.
Osteochondritis dessicans lesions of the humeral condyle may not be as obvious as osteochondritis dissecans lesions of the humeral head. If a lesion is suspected based on the pre-operative radiographs and is not readily apparent at arthrotomy, the articular surface of the trochlea of the humeral condyle should be probed with a Freer periosteal elevator. In these instances the malacic cartilage will readily separate from the adjacent unaffected cartilage. All diseased cartilage should be excised and the subchondral bed curettaged. Postoperatively the limb is placed in a soft padded bandage for 2 to 4 days following surgery to limit swelling and exercise is restricted for 3-4 weeks.