Humeral Intracondylar Fissure in Dogs.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Orthopedics
• Canine Sports Medicine
• Skeletal Pathology

Background:

• Humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF) was initially described as incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle.
• Current understanding recognizes HIF as a stress fracture in some canine cases.
• The term 'fissure' is preferred due to the fracture etiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the etiology of humeral intracondylar fissures in dogs.
• To discuss the surgical management of symptomatic HIF.
• To address the controversy surrounding the treatment of asymptomatic HIF.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on humeral intracondylar fissure.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria differentiating incomplete ossification from stress fracture.
• Evaluation of surgical techniques and outcomes for transcondylar implants.

Main Results:

• HIF is often a stress fracture, particularly in skeletally mature dogs.
• Surgical transcondylar implantation is effective for symptomatic HIF, reducing lameness and preventing condylar fractures.
• Asymptomatic HIF cases present a treatment dilemma due to potential for future lameness or fracture.

Conclusions:

• The term humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF) accurately reflects its nature as a stress fracture in many dogs.
• Surgical intervention with transcondylar implants is indicated for symptomatic HIF to improve outcomes.
• Management of asymptomatic HIF requires careful consideration of risks versus benefits.