Osteochondrosis dissecans in horse

Differenet causes can be affected the horse's musculoskeletal system during the growing period and at the start of training. Developmental orthopedic disease (DOD) is a major economic problem in the horse industry. osteochondrosis (Osteochondritis dissecans:OCD) is the most important form of the DOD due to high in horse populations that has an adverse effects on athlelic performance and costly treatment. OCD appears as result of disturbances in the endochondral ossification process that may progress and lead to formation of cartilage, bone or osteochondral fragments in joint spaces. Several factors involve in the etiopathogeneis of OCD. Arthroscopic surgery is the best method for OCD treatment in order to improve clinical signs and return horse to athletic soundness. Despite the possibility of treatment for OCD, it seems that prevention is the most important aspect of this disease to reduce the economic losses caused by it. This article reviews different aspects of osteochondrosis.