Studies into humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF) / incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC) in Springer Spaniels
Humeral intracondylar fissure (also known as incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle) is a condition in which there is a weakness in the humeral condyle –part of the elbow joint in the forelimb. It is most commonly seen in spaniels, especially Springer Spaniels in the UK, although other breeds can also be affected. This condition predisposes to fractures (breaks) of the humeral condyle and can also cause lameness in its own right without fracture. However, in some dogs it does not cause clinical signs and so an owner may not know their dog has the condition. There may be a genetic basis to the condition.
Our knowledge of this condition is limited and there remains controversy over what exactly HIF is. For a long time it was thought to be an abnormality of bone development in puppies but more recently we and others have recognised HIF developing in adult dogs' elbows which have previously been screened as normal.This suggests that HIF is a form of stress or fatigue fracture, at least in some dogs. However, we do not know why these stress fractures happen and why spaniel breeds seem to be predisposed.
Andy Moores has been at the forefront of research into this condition. For example, for a long time we had no idea how many seemingly normal Springer Spaniels were affected. In conjunction with the British Veterinary Orthopaedic Association we have investigated the incidence of HIF in a population of 'normal' Springer Spaniels, using CT scans of the elbows.
The results of this study were presented at the British Veterinary Orthopaedic Association's annual Spring meeting in Birmingham, March 2011, and a paper has been published in the journal Veterinary & Comparative Orthopaedics & Traumatology:
We have also investigated novel surgical approaches to manage HIF and HIF-associated fractures and this data has also been published:
We have also investigated the fracture risk for dogs diagnosed with this condition as an incidental finding:
Information sheets
Bandage Care - Primarily for owners, this sheet explains how to care for a bandage, cast or splint and what complications to look out for
Arthritis Care - Primarily for owners, this is a guide to the non-surgical management of the arthritic pet
Cruciate Disease - Primarily for owners, this sheet discusses the surgical options for dogs with cruciate ligament ruptures, including TPLO and lateral suture stabilisation
BVOA Hip Registry Information Sheet - A guide to the BVOA Hip Registry for owners of dogs having total hip replacement
Elbow Dysplasia - The BVA/Kennel Club's guide to elbow dysplasia and the elbow dysplasia screening scheme
Hip Dysplasia - A general guide to hip dysplasia and treatment options for owners
Hip Dysplasia - The BVA/Kennel Club's guide to hip dysplasia and the hip dysplasia screening scheme
Osteosarcoma - Primarily for owners, this sheet is a guide to osteosarcoma in dogs and describes the options for treatment
Guide to Mental Stimulation of Patients being Cage-Rested - A guide for owners of cats and dogs being cage-rested following surgery
An owner's guide to home care after orthopaedic surgery - Reprinted from 'Dogs Monthly' magazine and written by our own James Grierson