Canine Research Program
The small animal component of the J.D. Wheat Veterinary Laboratory draws from many established leaders in the field of canine orthopedics, whose work has raised the standard of care in the management of musculoskeletal injury and diseasese. This body of work has addressed surgical management of hip dysplasia with total joint prosthetics, repair of ruptured CCLs (cranial cruciate ligament), and extensive investigations into categorizing, understanding and clinically managing chronic and acute lameness.
Canine Elbow Dysplasia Research Program Background
Canine elbow dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is the most common forelimb orthopedic disorder in large breed dogs. A complex group of diseases comprises this disorder, including:
- Fragmentation of the medial coronoid process (FCP)
- Ununited anconeal process (UAP)
- Osteochondrosis dessicans (OCD)
- Elbow arthritis of unknown origin
All of this conditions in this group lead to chronic and often crippling pain, particularly among active large breed dogs. Despite the severity and high prevalance of elbow dysplasia, little research is currently underway to determine its causes or effective treatments. This may be due in part to the condition's complexity and the advanced research techniques necessary for these studies. The VORL is uniquely poised to address this problem with expert faculty and superior facilities.
Current Goals of the Elbow Dysplasia Research Program
- Elucidate the underlying causes of elbow dysplasia
- Develop effective treatment modalities
- Develop screening techniques to aid in the elimination of these diseases
