What is Osteochondrosis Dissecans ?

Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD) is a condition found in large, fast growing breeds of puppies. The cartilage (which serves as a cushion on the ends of bones) becomes thickened and enlarged, and some decaying can occur. This inflamation (which is known as Osteochondrosis) can cause intermittent lameness. Osteochondrosis Dissecans occurs when the inflamed and cracked cartilage breaks away from the bone and begins to 'float' in the joint. [1]

What causes OCD?

Environmental and genetic factors are attributed to the cause of OCD. Dogs whose parents had OCD are much more likely to also suffer from this disease. Also physical trauma to the joints can cause the already weakened cartilage to chip and crack. [1]

What are the symptoms of OCD?

Lameness in joints such as the shoulder, the elbow, the knee, and the ankle (hock) is seen in young dogs that are 4 to 12 months of age. Joints can appear swollen and will be painful upon palpation (feeling by hand with some pressure added) or flexation. Generally the pup's limp will be worse after exercise. [1,2]

How can I know for sure my dog has OCD?

X-rays are necessary for proper diagnosis. OCD of the knee is often confused with Hip Dysplasia as the dog will develop a gait that is similar to that of a dog with CHD. [1]

How can I treat Osteochondrosis Dissecans?

If a dog is merely suffering from Osteochondrosis then cage rest is certainly in order. However, once a piece of the cartilage has cracked and begins to float in the joint, it is time to operate. Surgery should be performed as soon as OCD has been diagnosed to prevent your dog from developing severe arthritis in the affected joint. If arthritis has already set in then surgery will reduce but not completely eliminate his pain. One should also think long and hard before deciding to surgically treat a dog with OCD in the stifle (knee). Even when caught in the early stages of OCD, the prognosis is not very good post surgery. [1]

Post surgery many vets recommend treating dogs with Glucosamine/ Chondroitin to reduce the pain and to encourage joint health. Also Adequan has been used to help fight arthritis and pain. [3]

How can I prevent OCD?

Since there is a genetic link to OCD one must be sure that the parents of your puppy did not suffer from OCD. Also there are some things that you can do to prevent Osteochondrosis from developing into Osteochondrosis Dissecans. Pups who show symptoms of Osteochondrosis should be cage rested with restricted, on leash activity to allow the weakened, cracked cartilage time to heal. [1,2]

References:

1. Growing Pains
2. Osteochondrosis Dissecans by George Jones
3. Osteochondritis or OCD