Use of arthroscopy for debridement of the elbow joint in cats

Arthroscopy was used to identify and remove loose osteochondral fragments detected in the region of the medial coronoid processes in the elbow joints of a cat that was lame in both forelimbs. The cat had clinical signs and arthroscopic lesions similar to those seen in dogs with fragmented medial coronoid processes. Moderate osteoarthritis was observed radiographically. Lameness resolved 2 weeks after removal of the fragments and was not detected for 2 years after surgery. No obvious progression of the osteoarthritis in the elbow joints was detected radiographically 2 years after surgery.