Case Study

ORTHO – Chronic degenerative joint disease (DJD) with synovitis, joint effusion and partial cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture in a 2 year old F Labrador Retriever dog

This 2 year old F Labrador Retriever dog presented with apparent left cruciate tear 3 month ago

DX

The findings of the left stifle joint are compatible with mild generalized chronic degenerative joint disease (DJD) with synovitis and mild joint effusion as well as emerging osteophytosis. The findings of the cranial cruciate ligament suggest edema and partial/developing rupture. Progression to biomechanical failure has to be expected.

Image Interpretation

Ultrasound of the left stifle – Both the supra- and infrapatellar recess of the left stifle joint reveal mild synovial
thickening as well as mild anechoic effusion.
Emerging osteophytes are seen at the periarticular margins of the femoropatellar joint
(mainly at the proximal extent of the femoral trochlea).
The view on the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is limited. It appears to be continuous
and hypoechoic, but slightly ill defined and irregular in thickness. Scant
periligamentous effusion is seen.
The infrapatellar fat body presents mild heterogeneity as found commonly in
degenerative joint disease (DJD).
The cranial and mid portion of the medial meniscus are well visible and in situ with
even surface and uniform echogenicity.

Right stifle – wnl