Merck Manual

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Aseptic Necrosis of the Femoral Head in Dogs

(Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease)

By

Joseph Harari

, MS, DVM, DACVS, Veterinary Surgical Specialists, Spokane, WA

Reviewed/Revised Nov 2020
Topic Resources

Aseptic necrosis, a deterioration of the femoral head seen in young miniature and small breeds of dogs, is associated with ischemia and avascular necrosis of the bone. The exact cause is unknown, although there may be a hereditary component in Manchester Terriers. Infarction of the bone leads to collapse of the femoral head and neck, followed by revascularization, resorption, and remodeling. The lesion is often bilateral.

Treatment involves surgical excision of the affected femoral head and neck and early postoperative physical therapy to stimulate limb usage. Prognosis for recovery is excellent.

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