Introduction

• Uncommon. Usually in dogs over 1 year of age.
• Usually lateral luxation of the antebrachium.
• Signs: carriage of limb in semi-flexion, distal limb abducted and supinated.
• Treatment: relocation by closed reduction, or open reduction +/- reconstruction of damaged collateral ligament.
• Prognosis: good, secondary osteoarthritis common sequela.

Pathogenesis

Etiology

• Trauma - lateral twisting of the antebrachium with the elbow flexed more than 45° (in extension luxation is prevented by the anconeal process engaging in the supratrochlear foramen).

Pathophysiology

• Usually lateral antebrachial displacement because larger medial epicondyle of humerus prevents medial displacement.
• Organization of the intra-articular hematoma that forms following luxation often occurs quickly. This may make delayed closed reduction difficult/impossible.
• Collateral ligament damage may result in permanent elbow instability - requires reconstruction.
• Osteoarthritic change Arthritis: osteoarthritis may occur as a long-term sequela.

Diagnosis

Treatment

Outcomes