Introduction

• Reasonably uncommon cause of hindlimb lameness in young animals, medium to large breeds.
• Usually manifests as osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of medial or lateral trochlear ridge of talus, with lesions of proximal medial trochlear ridge predominating.
• Signs: variable lameness with pain and crepitus and reduced range of flexion on joint manipulation - may be bilateral. Often associated with an abnormally upright stifle and hock conformation.
• Diagnosis: signs, radiography.
• Treatment: surgical intervention may be better than conservative management.
• Prognosis: chronic intermittent or continuous lameness is possible irrespective of management. The progression of secondary degenerative joint disease (DJD) is not arrested by surgery, although surgery may reduce likelihood of this being of clinical significance.

Pathogenesis

Pathophysiology

• See also osteochondrosis Osteochondrosis.
• Medial trochlear ridge most commonly affected.
• Lateral trochlear ridge is also a predilection site in the Rottweiler.

Timecourse

• Weeks to months.

Diagnosis

Treatment

Prevention

Outcomes