Case Study

ORTHO – Degenerative joint disease (DJD), with partial cranial cruciate (CCL) rupture in a 3 year old FS Labrador Retriever

This 3 year old Labrador Retriever has right hind lameness and is suspected of a patial CCL tear

DX

The findings of the left stifle joint are compatible with generalized chronic degenerative joint disease (DJD) with marked synovialitis as well as mild joint effusion and emerging osteophytosis. There findings are compatible with partial rupture and edema of the cranial cruciate ligament.

Image Interpretation

Ultrasound of the left stifle –

The infrapatellar recess of the left stifle joint reveals marked synovial thickening as well as mild anechoic effusion. Emerging osteophytes are seen at the periarticular margins of the femorotibial joint. The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is continuous but uneven in thickness and appear to be reduced in diameter. Mild periligamentsou effusion is seen. The infrapatellar fat body presents mild heterogeneity as found commonly in degenerative joint disease (DJD).  The menisci are not seen.