Comparison of the diagnostic accuracy of positive-contrast arthrography and arthrotomy in evaluation of osteochondrosis lesions in the scapulohumeral joint in dogs.

Abstract

During a 6-year-period (1985-1991), 120 positive-contrast arthrograms were made in 70 dogs to evaluate osteochondrosis lesions in the scapulohumeral joint. In 76 shoulders, the arthrographic findings were compared with surgical or histopathologic findings to evaluate the accuracy of the arthrographic technique. Positive-contrast arthrography was found to be accurate in evaluation of the status of the articular cartilage. In revealing discontinuity of the articular cartilage, the results of arthrography were false-negative in 4 shoulders (58/66; accuracy, 88%). In detecting thick cartilage covering a subchondral defect, the results of positive-contrast arthrography were false-positive in 4 joints (6/11; accuracy, 55%). In detecting fragmentation of the cartilage, arthrography provided false-negative results in 4 joints (7/11; accuracy, 64%). This technique enabled detection of joint mice, especially within the bicipital tendon sheath (no false-positive results). Arthrography failed to reveal joint mice within the caudal pouch in 2 joints (15/17; accuracy, 88%). Joint effusion also could be evaluated and was correlated with synovitis, degenerative joint disease, and loose or detached cartilage flaps. Postarthrography complications were not observed with this technique.