34th Annual Scientific Meeting proceedings

Objectives:

To describe the arthroscopic findings and surgical treatment of an unreported site of stifle osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) and to provide a mid-term functional outcome.

Methods:

A 7-year-old male Belgian-Shepherd was presented for a mild left hindlimb lameness of 4 months duration. At presentation, a moderate left hindlimb lameness was observed, associated with mild muscle atrophy, stifle effusion and discomfort upon stifle manipulation, without any associated instability. Radiographs showed an irregular defect of the proximal part of the femoral trochlea associated with subchondral sclerosis. Arthroscopic findings were consistent with an OCD lesion of the groove and axial side of the medial ridge of the femoral trochlea (confirmed by histopathology). Treatment included removal of the flap, debridement and micropicking of the bed lesion.

Results:

Four months follow-up revealed improvement of the lameness despite a persistent slight discomfort in full stifle extension with associated joint effusion. Arthroscopic and MRI recheck, showed a thin fibrocartilage layer partially covering the treated lesion without any sign of synovitis, with no other stifle injury. The owners were satisfied with the dog’s outcome 8 months after surgery despite a persistent subtle hindlimb lameness.

Conclusions:

This is the first report of stifle OCD localized in the proximal groove and axial side of the femoral trochlea, successfully treated by surgical flap removal, debridement and micropicking of the bed lesion, providing an improved functional mid-term outcome.