Patellar luxation in pets is a common orthopedic condition in dogs and some cats, occurring when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal groove in the femur during knee movements. This luxation can be temporary or permanent, depending on severity. In severe cases, the patella will not return to its proper position without medical intervention, often resulting in intermittent limping and eventually leading to osteoarthritis.
Causes of Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation can result from trauma or congenital origins. Congenital patellar luxation arises from abnormal knee structure present at birth, making it easier for the patella to dislocate. Since congenital forms are likely hereditary, breeding affected animals is discouraged to prevent transmission to future generations.
Classification of Patellar Luxation in Pets
Classifying luxation severity helps determine treatment options. The condition is graded as follows:
- Grade 1: Intermittent luxation with occasional limping. The patella can be manually dislocated but immediately returns to its place. No bone deformities are present.
- Grade 2: Frequent luxation causing visible limping, often with the leg flexed. The patella may spontaneously return or be repositioned manually.
- Grade 3: Permanent luxation with medial tibial rotation. The patella can be manually repositioned but immediately reluxates.
- Grade 4: Permanent and irreducible patellar luxation, causing significant joint deformity.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and luxation grade and can be conservative or surgical.
Conservative Treatment:
For mild cases (grades 1 and 2) with spontaneous repositioning, non-surgical management is typically preferred, emphasizing rest to limit excessive movement. However, long-term complications such as osteoarthritis or cruciate ligament rupture may still develop. Supplements like glucosamine may be recommended to protect joint cartilage.
Surgical Treatment:
For more severe cases (grades 3 and 4) or those significantly impacting quality of life, surgery is necessary. Various surgical techniques stabilize the joint, based on the luxation grade:
- Trochlear Groove Deepening: Enhances patellar stability by deepening the femoral groove where the patella glides.
- Trochlear Groove Deepening with Muscle Transposition: A muscle portion is repositioned to increase joint stability.
- Trochlear Groove Deepening with Tibial Crest Transposition: A bone fragment of the tibia is relocated to correct joint alignment.
Choosing the appropriate surgical technique depends on luxation severity and the pet’s anatomical specifics. Post-surgical rehabilitation and veterinary follow-up are crucial for successful recovery.
For personalized advice or concerns, consult our veterinary team to assess the best treatment options for your pet.
