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Shoulder

The main indication for arthroscopy in the shoulder joint is osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). This condition is diagnosed using standard and contrast radiography. An arthroscopic examination confirms the diagnosis and allows the location and extent of the lesions and joint mice to be assessed, except those in the biceps tendon sheath. For small lesions, conventional diagnostic techniques (standard and contrast radiography) are not always sufficient. In these cases, arthroscopy can be used to make a definitive diagnosis. The arthroscope can visualise even the smallest cartilage lesions. Arthroscopic removal of cartilage flaps is much less traumatic than conventional arthrotomy. With some practice, the cartilage flap can be removed in a much shorter time and the edges of the defect can be accurately refreshed.

Other indications for shoulder arthroscopy include injuries to the biceps tendon (inflammation, partial ruptures) and fragments/calcifications at the caudal edge of the glenoid cavity.

Photo 1 - A 4.5-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog with a joint mouse in the shoulder. The joint mouse (arrow) is clearly visible on the X-ray. Contrast radiography also revealed the cartilage defect where the flap had become detached (arrow). Arthroscopy revealed both the cartilage defect and the joint mouse, which was then removed.

Photo 2 - A 5.5-month-old Border Collie with OCD of the shoulder. Radiography shows clear flattening (arrow). Contrast radiography allows the size of the cartilage flap to be estimated (arrow). Arthroscopy reveals the loose flap (arrow), which was then removed using forceps.