06/08/2026
Let's talk about ... Medial Coronoid
Disease !
What is it ?
Medial coronoid disease is the most common form of elbow dysplasia in dogs and is also seen in cats, although it is much less common.
Elbow 'dysplasia' is an umbrella term for a variety of conditions affecting the elbow joint.
Elbow dysplasia means abnormal development of the elbow, meaning that the bones of the elbow do not grow normally and therefore the bones do not fit together perfectly.
The consequence of the abnormal development within the elbow joint is that it increases pressure in certain areas within the joint, causing discomfort and lameness.
There are three bones that make up the elbow joint; the radius, the ulna and the humerus.
The coronoid processes are two small protrusions on the end of the elbow.
Medial coronoid disease or a fragmented medial coronoid process, is a developmental defect of one of the coronoid processes, usually developing a crack or a fissure and separating away from the rest of the bone.
(Medial refers to the inner aspect of the bone).
What is the recommended treatment
Keyhole surgery using arthroscopy is recommended, it is minimally invasive and allows the small pieces of bone to be removed very delicately and the rest of the joint inspected in detail.
Despite removing the fragments of bone it doesn't change the fact the patient still has elbow dysplasia and the bones of the joint still will not sit perfectly together. In some cases surgery is recommended to cut and reset the radius and or ulna to change the loading on the joint and therefore minimise cartilage wear and arthritis.
There are multiple treatments for elbow arthritis, including conservative or medical treatments (weight control, exercise control, painkillers and physiotherapy) or surgical methods.
If you are noticing that your pet is displaying signs of lameness or there is a reluctance to exercise then an appointment with your veterinarian may be beneficial.
Your veterinarian may recommend referral, whereby it can be organised for you to be seen by one one of our veterinary surgeons who can examine your pet and discuss the options available and together make the right decision for your pet.
