Medial fragmented coronoid process is one of the three main causes of elbow dysplasia and elbow pain in young, large breed dogs. In this condition, one of the coronoid processes (the bony outcroppings at the end of the ulna) is broken.
This disease is diagnosed through a veterinarian's examination and x-rays, but it is sometimes difficult to see the fragmented coronoid well on an x-ray. Instead, a veterinarian can often see associated elbow arthritis, bony fragments forming near the coronoid process, or bone loss where the coronoid attaches to the ulna.
A veterinarian will also suspect this condition when none of the other causes of elbow dysplasia can be seen and there is evidence of arthritis in the elbow joint. A CT scan may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Medications can provide some pain relief for the arthritis that is likely to go along with this condition:
Do not give your dog any medications unless your veterinarian has advised you to do so.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like Rimadyl and Deramaxx are very helpful in fighting the pain and inflammation associated with elbow dysplasia due to medial fragmented coronoid process.
Adequan is a polysulfated glycosaminoglycan that can repair cartilage and lubricate joints. It is a good option to help reduce pain if it is in your budget. This drug is safer for long term use than other medications, but it does cost more and needs to be given as an injection by a veterinarian. The specific way that this drug works has not been fully explained, but studies have shown success in its treatment of the pain from a medial fragmented coronoid process.
Surgery, in many cases, works well for medial fragmented coronoid process if it is caught early, but owners should be aware that any component of arthritis that is already present in the elbow joint will continue to cause the dog pain, even after surgery. The most frequently used and effective surgery for this condition is the removal of the extra fragment of bone.
If you decide with your veterinarian that surgery is the best step for your pet, it is recommended to seek out a board certified veterinary orthopedic surgeon who is able to do arthroscopic surgery.
There is good evidence that giving glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplementation as directed by your veterinarian is helpful for slowing the progression of the arthritis associated with elbow dysplasia caused by medial fragmented coronoid process. Omega 3 fatty acids have also been used as a nutritional supplement that may benefit these dogs. These medications may help prevent ongoing damage to the joint and also decrease pain and swelling.
If you feed your large breed growing puppy a homemade diet, it is extremely important that the mineral amounts are balanced properly. If you decide to use a homemade diet, it is critical to use one developed by a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist.
References
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