It may be the growth plate that your wife is seeing. It sometimes looks
like a fracture when its a younger dog. I would definately have a
specialist consult and clarify that its not panosteitis. This disease
usually occurs in dogs
between the ages of 5 to 14 months, and affects males more often than
females.
In most cases the lameness occurs suddenly, without a history of
trauma.
Most often one or the other front leg is affected first, then without
warning
the symptoms will shift from leg to leg. Symptoms may appear to
improve
and then worsen in a nearly cyclic manner. Between spontaneous
improvement
and relocation "wandering" of discomfort areas, diagnosis can be
difficult.
X-rays may reveal that the bones have a greater density than is
normally
found.
In most cases, the pain
subsides within one to two months, although it can "recycle" for up to
one year. Panosteitis will eventually end its cycle and go away,
with or without treatment. Pain relievers may be necessary to help
make the dog more comfortable.
The specialist
may have to take additional x-rays but they will definately be able to
tell you. The surgery options for dysplasia are OCD and FCP require a single incision on the
inside of the elbow to remove the defects. UAP requires two incisions; one on the outside
for the known defect and one on the inside to identify and remove other
defects which are present as much as 80% of the time. Arthroscopic surgery has reportedly been used
in older dogs to remove arthritis. I do not advocate or perform this
procedure. Total Elbow Replacement may be available in
the near future for older dogs with severe symptoms. This procedure
will require special training, equipment, and facilities.
Good luck with your consult!
Let me know if you have any other questions
Good Luck &
Best Fishes