Summary
Objective: The objectives of this study were to determine the frequency of incomplete ossification
of the contralateral humeral condyle (IOHC) in mature dogs with unilateral, atraumatic
humeral condylar fracture (HCF), and to determine the sensitivity of radio-graphs
as a diagnostic tool for IOHC.
Methods: Computed tomography and radio-graphs were obtained for both elbows of 14 dogs with
unilateral HCF. The images were evaluated by two boarded radiologists and the prevalence
of IOHC in the limb contralaterla to the HCF was identified. Sensitivity and specificity
of the radiographic diagnosis of IOHC were determined.
Results: Incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle was present in six of 14 dogs, however
IOHC was incomplete in three of the six affected dogs. Plain radiographs had a sensitivity
of 0.83 (CI 95%: 0.36 to 0.99) and specificity of 1 (CI 95%: 0.60 to1). The Kappa
coefficient between radiologists for radio-graphic examination was 0.714. Of the Spaniel
breeds, four out of eight had IOHC in the limb contralateral to the HCF.
Clinical significance: Computed tomography evaluation is more sensitive than radiographs for diagnosis of
IOHC, particularly when assessing partial or incomplete IOHC. However, sensitivity
of radiographic diagnosis is good and should be adequate in most cases. Clinical suspicion
of IOHC in the contralateral limb to the unilateral HCF should be present
however overall frequency may not be as high as previously reported.
Keywords
Humeral condylar fracture - incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle - Salter-Harris
Type IV - Cocker Spaniel