Computed tomographic features of elbow osteoarthritis predict lameness in small-breed pigs.

CT findings predict elbow lameness in pigs; HIF and OA severity strongest predictors.

This retrospective study examined computed tomographic (CT) features of elbow osteoarthritis (OA) in small-breed pigs to establish predictive value for lameness diagnosis. Medical records from 49 pigs (90 elbows) with available CT images, clinical history, and gait examination data were reviewed between January 2013 and April 2025. Images were systematically scored for OA severity, humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF), subchondral bone cystic lesions, articular margin incongruity, periarticular mineral bodies, and subchondral bone sclerosis (SBS). Logistic regression analysis identified significant associations between multiple CT findings and lameness probability. Mild elbow OA showed the highest odds ratio (21.97) for lameness, followed by HIF (11.82), articular margin incongruity (5.28), SBS (4.78), and periarticular mineral bodies (3.09). These findings provide veterinarians with objective CT criteria to predict elbow-related lameness in pigs, addressing a significant diagnostic challenge in this species and enabling earlier clinical intervention and improved outcomes.

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