Humeral Intracondylar Fissure (HIF) in Dogs

What is HIF?

A HIF is a narrow fissure within the lower end of the humerus. It often develops silently and may not cause obvious symptoms. Dogs can appear healthy while the fissure gradually compromises the strength of the elbow joint.

If the fissure progresses to a full fracture, the consequences can be severe, requiring complex surgery and prolonged recovery.

Who is at Risk?

HIF is most commonly seen in Spaniels (such as English Springer and Cocker Spaniels) and

increasingly in French Bulldogs. Other breeds can also be affected.

Dogs may show:

• Mild or intermittent forelimb lameness
• Stiffness after rest
• Reduced willingness to exercise
• However, some dogs show no signs at all until a fracture occurs.

How is HIF Diagnosed?

Clinical Examination

Your vet will assess limb function and look for signs of elbow discomfort. However, because fissures are internal and often subtle, they cannot usually be confirmed by examination alone.

Imaging

X-rays: Often fail to detect HIF because the fissure is very fine.

CT scans: The gold standard for diagnosis. CT imaging provides detailed cross-sectional views of the elbow, allowing detection of even small fissures before they cause major problems.

Normal elbows with no fissure visible on CT imaging

CT scan showing bilateral humeral intracondylar fissures

Why Early Detection Matters

If a fissure is identified early:

• Preventative treatment can be performed before a fracture occurs.
• Recovery is quicker and less complicated.
• The risk of arthritis and long-term lameness is reduced.

Once a fissure has fractured completely:

• Surgery becomes more complex.
• Recovery is longer.
• The chance of joint disease increases.

X-ray showing a transcondylar screw used to stabilise a fissure

Treatment Options

If a fissure is detected, stabilisation is recommended to prevent fracture. This usually involves:

• Transcondylar screw placement: A screw is inserted across the fissure to restore strength.
• Plate fixation: In some cases, a plate may be added for extra stability.

These procedures are typically minimally invasive, allowing:

• Shorter anaesthesia times
• Faster recovery
• Reduced risk of complications

Post-Operative Care

• Most dogs go home within a few days of surgery.
• Controlled exercise and physiotherapy are advised for several weeks.
• Follow-up imaging ensures the fissure has healed and the implant remains secure.

Summary

HIF is a subtle but significant condition that can lead to serious elbow fractures if undetected.

CT imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis.

Early intervention prevents catastrophic injury and promotes long-term comfort.

If your dog shows unexplained forelimb lameness or stiffness, or belongs to a predisposed breed, speak to your vet about screening.