Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation is common and can affect both dogs and cats. It is typically seen in small breed dogs although dogs of any size can be affected. Some animals will have the condition in both of their knees.

Patellar Luxation

What is Patellar Luxation?

Patellar luxation describes the situation where the patella (kneecap) slips out of its groove. This may happen rarely or frequently, and in some cases, the patella may be permanently out of position. The patella may slip out on the inside of the leg, when it is termed medial luxation, or less commonly on the outside of the leg when it is termed lateral luxation. We grade the luxation from 1 to 4 based on how commonly the patella slips out of the groove and how easy or difficult it is to bring it back into normal alignment. Animals with grade 1 luxation have a very mild form of patellar luxation, whereas those with grade 4 luxation have a permanently luxated kneecap.

What are the signs?

Those affected with patellar luxation may not exhibit lameness or they may have an occasional skipping lameness. Persistent lameness is seen in some and in rare and severe cases animals will adopt a crouched gait. Osteoarthritis can develop when the patella luxates frequently and this can contribute to joint discomfort.

What are the treatment options?

Many different surgical techniques are available to correct this condition and a key factor to achieving success is to determine which treatment is most appropriate for an individual animal.

In some cases, surgery is not needed, and patients can be successfully treated with muscle strengthening techniques. However, the majority of those that show lameness will require surgery.

Rob has been treating patients with patellar luxation for over 25 years and is well-versed in all the techniques that are used to manage this condition. He is keenly aware that every patient is unique, and he works hard to tailor the treatments to the individual animal.