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Canine Unicompartmental Elbow arthroplasty in the treatment of elbow dysplasia.

The progressive process of elbow joint degeneration in dysplasia begins at the medial aspect of the joint. Osteoarthritis with advanced articular disease in the course of elbow dysplasia generates atrophy of the cartilage of the medial compartment of the joint. Mutual conflict of articular surfaces leads to their destruction and as a result the formation of degenerative changes, restriction of joint mobility, severe pain and motor dysfunction. In the vast majority of patients, the changes occurring in the so-called medial compartment do not affect the much larger lateral part of the joint for a long time which retains its anatomical status.

The CUE arthroplasty procedure developed by Dr. Schulz and Dr. Cook in collaboration with Arthrex is dedicated to patients with MCD (medial compartment disease). The technique was developed for those patients in whom standard management with arthroscopy or other forms of surgical treatment (distal osteotomies, double oblique osteotomies, PAUL, SHO) are not advisable due to the severity of the process.

CUE surgery involves the installation of two implants - into the humerus and ulnar bone.. The larger implant dedicated to the humerus condyle is made of a cobalt chromium-titanium alloy, while the smaller one created from a mixture of polyethylene and titanium is placed in the ulna. When performed correctly, the procedure leads to decompression of the damaged joint surface, and the resulting prosthesis generates a return of function and leads to an increased range of motion of the joint.

We perform the procedure most preferably in the morning and discharge the patient the same day. It will be necessary to administer antibiotics and pain relief. Bandages are changed after a week and removed about 3 weeks after the procedure. We ask for special attention and restriction of movement until 8 weeks after surgery. The rehabilitation process started during this period should result in a full return of function after a period of 5-6 months.