33rd Annual Scientific Meeting proceedings

Introduction
French Bulldogs (FBDs) are recognised as a breed at increased risk of humeral condylar fracture (HCF) with underlying humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF) or incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC) proposed as causes. The majority of HCFs in FBDs occur in skeletally immature patients rendering delayed ossification the most likely pathogenesis; however, whether this represents ossification failure or breed variation in ossification times remains unknown. The aim of this study was to retrospectively assess whether HIFs in FBDs fuse with time, indicating delayed humeral condylar ossification. 

Materials and Methods
Medical records (January 2018-September 2022) from a surgical referral centre were evaluated for dogs with a HCF where preoperative CT was performed. Three groups were established for comparison: FBDs, Spaniels and other breeds. FBDs with a HIF in the contralateral elbow were followed up with repeat CT 4-8 weeks postoperatively to evaluate for HIF resolution. 

Results
137 HCFs were included; 59 FBDs, 53 Spaniels and 25 others.  FBDs sustaining HCF were substantially younger than Spaniels: 87.8% of FBDs were under 12 months versus 25.5% of Spaniels.  Twenty-six FBDs had a contralateral HIF. Fourteen FBDs had follow-up CT which demonstrated fusion of the HIF in13/14 (93%) cases.

Discussion/Conclusions
The incidence of contralateral HIF is similar in FBDs and Spaniels, but age distribution is different and most HIFs in FBDs fuse with time.  Due to the potential for breed variation in ossification of the humeral condyle, follow-up CT may be warranted in skeletally immature FBDs prior to considering prophylactic transcondylar screw placement.