Canine Shoulder Disorders
Facts
Canine shoulder problems are relatively common and include OCD, instability and biceps tendon disorders. Canine OCD is the most common problem and occurs in young (8-12 month old), large to giant breed dogs. Instability and bicipital tenosyovitis occurs in middle to older aged dogs (Labrador retrievers are the most common breed affected).
Clinical Signs
Lameness is the most common clinical sign with all shoulder disorders. Degree of lameness varies from moderate to severe. Front limb lameness is often manifested by the patient head bobbing at a slow trot.
Diagnosis
Orthopedic examination, radiology (x-rays), CT scan, MRI and arthroscopy are all useful in diagnosing shoulders. Of these, arthroscopy is most diagnostic and allows diagnosis and treatment under one anesthetic period.
Treatment
Treatment
of choice for shoulder disorders depends on the definitive diagnosis. Many
problems can be treated using arthroscopy alone.
Approximate cost of surgery for shoulder disorders is $2,080.
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