Bo, only 9 weeks old, might need OCD shoulder surgery
Q: My puppy, “Bo,” has been limping for a few weeks — and getting a bit worse each week. I took him to my vet, who thinks he has a shoulder problem called OCD. She wants me to see a specialist, a veterinary orthopedic, and I’m more than a bit anxious. She says Bo might need surgery, but he is only 9 months old. A.C., Farragut
A: Osteochondritis dissecans, also known as OCD, is an orthopedic disease of young large breed dogs. You didn’t mention what breed of dog Bo is, but the disease is most common in German Shepherds, Great Danes and Bermese Mountain dogs, although it can occur in any dog. It also seems to affect males more than females.
With OCD, the cartilage fails to attach to the bone during the rapid growth phase. This creates a defect between the cartilage and bone. The cartilage cells can die, and this creates a flap in the joint. The flap can detach but remain in the joint space, creating more pain. The most common place this is seen is the shoulder, but it can occur in other joints as well.
If a patient is not experiencing much pain, surgery may not be necessary. But for many dogs like Bo, it becomes more and more painful with time.
For those dogs, the cartilage defect/flap must be surgically removed, and sometimes the area needs surgical remodeling. Arthroscopic surgery is now the preferred treatment method and is available at many orthopedic practices. Minimally invasive surgery does allow for improved surgical visualization and precision, and of course, faster recovery times.
It is understandable that you would be anxious. I agree with the recommendation to refer to a specialist and see what they recommend. If surgery is recommended, sooner is better, especially for Bo’s comfort.
If you have a question
about your pet, you may e-mail
Dr. Myers at
lenoircityac@gmail.com
