OBJECTIVE

To establish whether osteochondral autograft transfer (OAT) procedures for osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the canine caudocentral humeral head would restore articular contour, resurface osteochondral defects, and resolve lameness in dogs with OCD.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series.

ANIMALS

Dogs (n=14) with caudocentral humeral head OCD (16 shoulders).

METHODS

After arthroscopic assessment, the humeral head was exposed by arthrotomy. The OCD lesion was debrided and OATS(™) instrumentation used for resurfacing the defect with osteochondral core grafts collected from the stifle. Recipient sockets were created to maximally resurface articular lesions. Outcomes measures included clinical, radiographic, and arthroscopic examination at 12-18 weeks and clinical examination at 12-46 months (mean, 30.8 months) postoperatively.

RESULTS

Resurfacing of the humeral head was achieved in all dogs. Subjectively, lameness resolved in 9 of 16 limbs by 5-6 weeks postoperatively, and in 13 limbs by 12-18 weeks. Radiographically, all autografts were maintained. On second-look arthroscopy, the grafted section was intact, resilient on probing, satisfactorily conformed to the adjacent articular contour, and grossly appeared consistent with hyaline or fibrocartilage depending on the graft source. Of 12 limbs available for 12-46 months reevaluation, none were considered lame and mild discomfort on shoulder manipulation was recorded for only 1 joint.

CONCLUSIONS

OAT procedures are technically feasible in the caudocentral aspect of the canine humeral head. Articular contour reconstruction, resurfacing of osteochondral defects, and amelioration or resolution of short-term lameness may be achieved.