OCD Surgery for Pets
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) is a developmental orthopedic condition that affects joint cartilage, causing pain and lameness. At Animal Surgical Care of PA, we perform OCD surgery to remove abnormal cartilage and promote healing in young, growing pets.
Diagnosis is made using radiographs or CT imaging to identify the lesion's size and location, often in the shoulder, elbow, or knee joint. In elbow cases, OCD can occur alongside other developmental disorders addressed through our anconeal process excision program.
Surgery involves removing loose cartilage fragments and smoothing the affected bone surface to restore healthy joint motion. In some cases, microfracture techniques are used to stimulate new cartilage growth and support long-term joint health.
Anesthesia and postoperative care are tailored to each patient's age and health status, with controlled exercise and physical therapy recommended during recovery to rebuild strength safely.
With early intervention and proper rehabilitation, most pets regain full function and live active, pain-free lives. If your young, growing dog is showing intermittent lameness, contact Animal Surgical Care of PA at (484) 886-8612 for a diagnostic evaluation.
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) Surgery FAQs
What is osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) in pets?
OCD is a developmental condition in young, growing pets where abnormal joint cartilage causes pain, inflammation, and lameness.
What joints are most commonly affected by OCD?
OCD most often affects the shoulder, elbow, or knee joints.
How is OCD diagnosed in dogs and cats?
Radiographs or CT imaging determine the size and location of the cartilage lesion.
What happens during OCD surgery?
Loose cartilage fragments are removed and the bone surface smoothed, sometimes with microfracture techniques.
What is recovery like after OCD surgery?
Controlled exercise and physical therapy support healing and rebuild strength.
Will my pet return to normal activity after OCD surgery?
Most pets regain full function and live active, pain-free lives with proper rehabilitation.