Epidemiological and Radiographic Study of Elbow Dysplasia in Large Breed Dogs in Nigerian Urban Centers

Elbow dysplasia is a multifactorial developmental orthopedic condition of large breed dogs encompassing fragmented coronoid process, osteochondrosis dissecans, and ununited anconeal process, and represents a significant cause of forelimb lameness and progressive osteoarthritis. This analytical epidemiological and radiographic study investigates the prevalence, breed distribution, radiographic characteristics, and management of elbow dysplasia in large breed dogs at veterinary facilities in Lagos, Abuja, and Kano between January 2022 and December 2023. One hundred and six large breed dogs above 12 months of age presenting with forelimb lameness were enrolled. Standard elbow radiographic projections including craniocaudal, mediolateral, and flexed mediolateral views were performed and interpreted by a radiological panel. Arthroscopy was performed in 22 dogs for definitive diagnosis and concurrent treatment. Elbow dysplasia was confirmed in 41.5% of enrolled dogs, with fragmented coronoid process being the most prevalent component lesion in 61% of affected animals. German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Boerboels were overrepresented. Bilateral elbow involvement was present in 54% of affected dogs. Radiographic findings underestimated lesion severity compared to arthroscopic findings in 33% of cases, underscoring the diagnostic limitations of radiography alone. Arthroscopic debridement provided good-to-excellent short-term lameness resolution in 78% of treated dogs. This study provides the first multi-city epidemiological analysis of elbow dysplasia in Nigerian large breed dogs and recommends expanded arthroscopic diagnostic and treatment capabilities at major urban veterinary centers. Keywords: elbow dysplasia, fragmented coronoid process, canine, radiography, large breed dogs.