Case Study

ORTHO – Degenerative joint disease (DJD) with osteoarthritis, synovialitis and effusion of the stifle in a 6 year old FS Pitbull mix

This 6 year old FS Pitbull mix dog had a right CCL tear that was surgically repaired; ultrasound of left stifle today

Image Interpretation

Ultrasound of the left stifle –

The supra- and infrapatellar recess of the left stifle joint reveal mild synovial thickening as well as mild anechoic effusion. A moderate amount of osteophytes is seen at the periarticular margins of the stifle joint. The echogenicity and delineation of the joint cartilage is within normal limits. The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is even in diameter and well delineated, the regular fibre pattern is recongnized. Mild periligamentous effusion and mild regional synovial membrane thickening are seen. The infrapatellar fat body presents mild heterogeneity as found commonly in degenerative joint disease (DJD).  The medial meniscus is in situ with regular outline and echogenicity

DX

The ultrasonographic findings of the left stifle joint are compatible with moderate chronic degenerattive joint disease with mild to moderate osteoarthritis, synovialitis and effusion. The findings of the cranial cruciate ligament and medial meniscus are within normal limits at this point.