Two sections abstracted from the article Rotator Cuff Injury in Performance Dogs
by Sherman O. Canapp Jr., DVM MS Diplomate of the ACVS and Ria Acciani MPT
(Clean Run Nov. 2007)
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Treatment Based on the results of the orthopedic examination, abduction angle tests, and arthroscopic scoring, patients are placed into one of three treatment categories; mild, moderate, or severe. Patients with abduction angles of 35° to 45° and arthroscopic findings consisting of mild pathology (inflammation without fraying, disruption, or laxity of the MGL, subscapularis tendon, joint capsule) are placed in a shoulder support system/hobbles (www.Dogleggs.com) and entered into a rehabilitation therapy program. (on page 4)

Postoperative Care Appropriate postoperative care is a critical factor in dogs with MSI treated with RF treatment. Based on tissue strength data, it is imperative to protect the shoulder during the initial postoperative period. Therefore, dogs are kept in a shoulder protection device (hobbles) [(www.Dogleggs.com)] for a minimum of three months, especially following RF therapy. (on page 5)

Dr. Canapp, a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, completed a combined D.V.M./M.S. at Kansas State University, an internship in small animal medicine and surgery at the the University of Missouri, a three-year residency in small animal surgery at the University of Florida, and training in canine rehabilitation by the Canine Rehabilitation Institute. Dr. Canapp currently practices orthopedic surgery and sports medicine at the Veterinary Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Group (VOSM) in Ellicott City, Maryland, and acts as a consultant to local zoos, police K-9 units, agility, flyball, and disc competition dogs. See additional information about Dr. Canapp at www.vetsportsmedicine.com.