If your companion has been diagnosed with Osteochondritis Dissecans, you may be struggling to grasp the causes, intricacies, and potential outlooks for the condition. Many factors can influence your canine’s risk of developing OCD, including their genetics, diet, hormones, and overall joint health. So, if your veterinary care team has brought up OCD of the hock for dogs and you’re still adjusting to the diagnosis, snuggle up with your pup and read this primer.
OCD of the Hock for Dogs: What is it?
OCD of the hock for dogs has multiple contributing factors and causes. Still, the essential result is that the cartilage in joints can become abnormally thick, break away from the bone, and cause inflammation. This is typically due to problems during endochondral ossification, the process in which bones are formed in fetuses and puppies. In the hock (or ankle), surgical intervention is often necessary. Because this condition causes joint inflammation, patients and their guardians must also work to manage osteoarthritis.
Diagnosing OCD of the Hock for Dogs
Because the process begins in utero and puppyhood, many canines with OCD are diagnosed at a young age. Still, some patients may not display signs until they are older. Your companion may show a few different clinical signs, including reluctance to run or play, stiffness, limping, or lameness. You may also notice joint pain, swelling, or tenderness. The severity of the symptoms and how they manifest will depend on the location and size of the cartilage defect. Veterinary professionals typically diagnose OCD by performing radiographs or advanced imaging such as a CT scan, often after they have physically examined the patient.
Surgical Treatment Options for OCD of the Hock for Dogs
Fortunately for canines and their guardians, OCD of the hock for dogs can be treated with numerous surgical treatment options. For very minor defects, some veterinary professionals may recommend surgical removal of the cartilage flap and debridement. Still, this is often a temporary solution. Partial joint replacement is another option, and total joint replacement or arthrodesis (fusion of the bones) can be considered in more advanced cases. In each case, the goal is to minimize discomfort, improve quality of life, and reduce inflammation or disease progression.
Trust Maryland Veterinary Surgical Services With Your Companion’s Health
Your companion’s health is important, and the team at MVSS is ready to provide the best care possible for your furry family. We are dedicated to combining comprehensive exams and assessments with informative and honest discussions of your companion’s care. Once we have worked with you to decide on the best course of action for your dog, our professionals will use their surgical expertise to work towards the goal of giving your companion an active and pain-free life. We are proud to serve loyal companions in Catonsville and Baltimore. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 410-788-4088 or visit us online. For more information and tips for pet health, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.