## Overview Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the stifle is a developmental orthopedic disease in which cartilage fails to convert properly to bone, most often on the lateral trochlear ridge of the femur. Young horses develop stifle effusion and intermittent lameness. Radiographs confirm the lesion, and arthroscopic removal has a good prognosis. ## Causes Disturbance of endochondral ossification. Genetics, rapid growth, and nutrition may contribute. ## Diagnosis Radiographs of the stifle in a young horse with effusion or lameness. ## Treatment Arthroscopic removal of the abnormal cartilage and bone. Conservative management for very small lesions in some cases. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good to excellent for most lateral trochlear ridge lesions after surgery. ## Prevention Balanced nutrition and controlled growth in young horses.
stifle effusion in a young horse; intermittent hind-limb lameness; radiographic lesion on the lateral trochlear ridge
## Overview Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the stifle is a developmental orthopedic disease in which cartilage fails to convert properly to bone, most often on the lateral trochlear ridge of the femur. Young horses develop stifle effusion and intermittent lameness. Radiographs confirm the lesion, and arthroscopic removal has a good prognosis. ## Causes Disturbance of endochondral ossification. Genetics, rapid growth, and nutrition may contribute. ## Diagnosis Radiographs of the stifle in a young horse with effusion or lameness. ## Treatment Arthroscopic removal of the abnormal cartilage and bone. Conservative management for very small lesions in some cases. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good to excellent for most lateral trochlear ridge lesions after surgery. ## Prevention Balanced nutrition and controlled growth in young horses.
stifle effusion in a young horse; intermittent hind-limb lameness; radiographic lesion on the lateral trochlear ridge