Meet Mack:
Mack, a 163lb St Bernard, presented to Veterinary Specialist Services at 2 years and 8 months of age with bilateral elbow osteoarthritis secondary to coronoid disease. This case presented unique challenges given the patient’s young age and the limitations of conventional surgical interventions for his specific condition. The clinical team decided on bilateral intra-articular Arthramid® injections as a treatment approach, with the primary objective of improving joint function and reducing lameness while preserving long-term joint health.
Clinical Assessment:
Initial examination in April 2025, by Dr Victoria Hudson revealed significant bilateral elbow pathology. Clinical findings included Grade 2/5 left thoracic limb lameness with exercise intolerance, consistent with osteoarthritic changes affecting functional mobility.
Orthopedic examination findings:
Left elbow: Pain on manipulation with mild crepitus, no palpable effusion
Right elbow: Joint effusion and crepitus during manipulation, reduced flexion range with mild pain on extension
Given the patient’s age and the nature of the underlying coronoid disease, surgical intervention was not recommended, so the decision was made to proceed with bilateral intra-articular Arthramid® injections as the primary therapeutic intervention.
The Treatment Plan:
Bilateral intra-articular Arthramid® injections were performed in both elbow joints. Post-procedure management included strict exercise restriction to leash walks only, avoiding high-impact activities during the initial recovery period. Follow-up examination was scheduled for 2-3 weeks post-treatment to assess therapeutic response.
Clinical Response:
At the 4-week recheck examination (May, 2025), clinical assessment revealed significant improvement in range of motion and joint comfort. The client reported complete resolution of lameness for the first two weeks post-treatment, with brief recurrence following excessive exercise that subsequently resolved with activity management.
Clinical findings at follow-up:
- No observable lameness at walk or run
- Absence of pain response to bilateral elbow manipulation or palpation
- Patient completed half mile walk without discomfort
- NSAIDs discontinued post-treatment with no requirement for resumed use
- Reported definitive improvement
Clinical assessment documented as “Excellent clinical response to bilateral elbow Arthramid injections 4 weeks ago” by the attending veterinarian, Dr Victoria Hudson.
Clinical Significance
This case demonstrates the therapeutic efficacy of Arthramid® in managing osteoarthritis in young canine patients. The treatment provided measurable clinical benefits across multiple parameters.
