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Veterinary Specialty Hospital - North County

Intra-articular Injection for the Treatment of Canine Elbow Dysplasia

OPEN

This pilot study seeks to evaluate whether positive anecdotal evidence in dogs with elbow dysplasia can be replicated in a larger cohort of dogs with suspected elbow dysplasia when a new veterinary device is delivered via intra-articular injection.

DESCRIPTION

Canine elbow dysplasia is a complex, multifactorial disease that commonly affects large and giant breed dogs. It is a development disorder that involves abnormal growth and formation of the elbow joint, leading to joint instability and subsequent degenerative changes. Dogs affected by elbow dysplasia often exhibit signs of lameness, reluctance to exercise, stiffness, and pain in the affected limb(s). Early detection and appropriate management are crucial for improving the quality of life of dogs diagnosed with elbow dysplasia and reducing the progression of joint damage.

A new veterinary device that is composed of collagen and elastin particles has been developed; it is delivered via intra-articular injection and helps protect cartilage from mechanical grinding. Previous anecdotal use of this product has suggested a possible benefit when used in dogs with elbow dysplasia.

This pilot study seeks to evaluate whether this benefit is seen in a larger cohort of dogs with suspected elbow dysplasia through the intra-articular injection of this product in the affected elbow joint. If a benefit is demonstrated, this data would support the launch of larger and more focused clinical studies to validate the use of this product in dogs for the pre-surgical management of cruciate disease.

Pet owners and veterinarians with eligible patients are invited to schedule a consultation with a participating surgeon at one of the participating Ethos hospitals near you.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

  • Dogs 1+ years old.

  • Presenting with forelimb lameness on one or both sides that is suspected due to elbow dysplasia

  • No surgical procedures on the affected elbow joint within 120 days of injection

  • No intra-articular injections into the affected joint within 90 days prior to study enrollment

  • No treatment with topical or systemic drugs that have analgesic or anti-inflammatory properties for less than 30 days prior to the study:

    • Dogs on daily, long-term, stable analgesic medication for >30 days, such as NSAIDs, are still eligible)

  • No injectable corticosteroids or administration of polysulfated glycosaminoglycans, glucosamine, or chondroitin sulfate nutritional supplements within 30 days prior to enrollment

  • No pregnant or lactating dogs

PARTICIPATING HOSPITALS

BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATION

Pet owners who participate receive:

  • Free of charge:

    • The cost of the treatment, physical exams, hospitalization, and diagnostics associated with the study. Costs outside of the study requirements will not be covered.

  • Additional coverage:

    • Up to $3,000 towards the cost associated with treating any side effects suspected to be related to the study