Page 238 - Canine Lameness

210 14 Elbow Region

(A) (B)

ELBOW REGION Figure 14.8 UAP: (A) 7-month-old dog with UAP (white arrow); the black arrow indicates the normal

appearance of the apophysis of the tuber olecranon; (B) 12-month-old dog with UAP (white arrow) – note
the different appearance compared to the patient shown in image (A).

the humerus, thereby simplifying observation of the radiolucent line separating the anconeal pro-
cess. However, since the treatment recommendations differ if concurrent incongruity and MCD
are diagnosed, a CT is generally recommended if available.

14.10 Elbow Luxation

Elbow luxation is categorized into traumatic and congenital etiologies. It is important to differentiate
the two etiologies since treatment and prognosis differ greatly. Treatment for traumatic elbow luxa-
tions (TELs) generally consists of immediate closed reduction (if no articular fractures or chronic
degenerative changes are present). Open (surgical) reduction is performed if closed reduction fails.
On the other hand, congenital elbow luxations (CELs) cannot be treated with closed reduction since
the osseous and soft tissue anatomy is altered. Treatment options for CEL include surgical and non-
surgical management depending on clinical factors and type of luxation (Figure 14.9). CEL can be
categorized into three forms: Type I is defined as caudolateral luxation of the radial head without
disruption of the humeroulnar joint (i.e. the ulna is in a normal position); Type II is defined as a
lateral rotation and subluxation of the ulna; Type III is associated with severe skeletal deformities and
defined as luxation of radius and ulna. Outlined below are the diagnostic criteria and features of both
TEL and CEL etiologies to assist the reader in differentiating between them.

14.10.1 Signalment and History

TEL is most commonly a result from vehicular accidents or falls and, therefore, can happen in
dogs of any signalment. Congenital luxations are generally seen in juvenile animals, although
mild forms may not present clinically until later in life. Type I luxation more typically manifests