Summary
Arthroscopy is the gold standard for articular surface examination and is commonly
advocated for diagnosing and treating cases of canine elbow dysplasia. Arthroscopy
is generally regarded as a low-risk procedure, however there is a paucity of information
in the small animal veterinary literature regarding the associated complication rates.
In a retrospective study spanning a ten year period, 750 elective elbow arthroscopies
were evaluated. Complications necessitating repeat surgery were defined as major,
and were documented in 4.8% of dogs. Minor perioperative complications occurred in
17.1% dogs. The failure of arthroscopic treatment necessitating unplanned conversion
to arthrotomy was the most frequently encountered complication in this category, having
been reported in five percent of dogs. Minor postoperative complications occurred
in 10.7% dogs; these included a worsened postoperative lameness (5.5%), severe pain
(2.8%), severe swelling (2%), infection (0.2%), and neurapraxia (0.2%). A total of
204 dogs returned for a postoperative re-examination and in seven percent, lameness
was more severe than that noted preoperatively. The results of the study show that
the major complication rate associated with elective elbow arthroscopy is low, but
that the minor peri- and postoperative complication rate is concerning. These findings
will assist veterinarians in their preoperative discussions with owners to ensure
the achievement of informed consent.
Keywords
Elbow arthroscopy - complication - medial - coronoid disease - dog
