Conference Programme 2025

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Why pattern recognition is sometimes a good thing - common breed-related lameness in dogs

24 Oct 2025
RVC Clinical Theatre 1

In the busy world of general practice, pattern recognition can be a helpful shortcut—when paired with solid clinical reasoning. This talk walks through the most common orthopaedic causes of lameness in dogs, organized by joint: shoulder, elbow, hip, stifle, and hock. We’ll cover typical signalments, presenting signs, and diagnostic strategies for each region, with a focus on the conditions general practitioners are most likely to encounter. By learning to recognise patterns while avoiding diagnostic traps, clinicians can improve confidence, efficiency, and patient outcomes.

Regionalise Lameness:
Develop a systematic approach to localising lameness to specific joints through history, gait assessment, and orthopaedic examination.

Recognise Common Joint-Specific Conditions:
Identify the most frequent causes of lameness for each major joint.

Breed and Age Patterns:
Understand how signalment and breed predisposition can guide differential diagnosis (e.g., Labradors with elbow dysplasia, small breeds with patellar luxation).

Diagnostic Tips:
Gain practical tips on when and how to use radiography, joint palpation, and referral diagnostics (e.g., arthroscopy, CT) effectively.

Speakers
Mark Newman, BVSc MVS MANZCVS DipECVS, Specialist in small animal surgery - VetSurg
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