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Traumatic fragmented medial coronoid process in a Chihuahua
H S Hadley1, J L Wheeler, P A Manley
1Wheat Ridge Veterinary Specialists, Wheat Ridge, Colorado, USA. hadleyh@cvm.msu.edu
Summary
Fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP) was diagnosed in a toy-breed dog. This case suggests FMCP can occur traumatically in small breeds, differing from large breed presentations.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Canine Orthopedics
- Comparative Pathology
Background:
- Fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP) is a common developmental orthopedic disease in large-breed dogs.
- FMCP has not been previously documented in toy-breed dogs.
- This case presents a unique instance in a small breed dog.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a presumptive case of FMCP in a toy-breed dog.
- To describe the diagnostic and surgical management of FMCP in a Chihuahua.
- To investigate the nature of the coronoid process fragmentation in this small breed.
Main Methods:
- Computed tomography (CT) scan for diagnosis and assessment of joint incongruity.
- Surgical intervention including fragment removal, subtotal coronoidectomy, and ulnar ostectomy.
- Histopathological examination of surgical specimens.
Main Results:
- A 14-month-old Chihuahua was diagnosed with FMCP via CT scan.
- CT also revealed moderate elbow joint incongruity.
- Histology indicated an acute, traumatic fracture rather than the microdamage typical of large breeds.
- Rapid functional recovery was observed post-surgery.
Conclusions:
- Fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP) can occur in toy-breed dogs.
- The underlying pathology in this toy-breed case appeared to be acute and traumatic.
- Surgical intervention can lead to a rapid return to function for FMCP in small breeds.
