PATELLAR LUXATION

General Information:

Patellar luxation is a dislocation of the kneecap (patella). The kneecap may dislocate toward the inside (medial) or outside (lateral) of the leg, or may move in both directions. It may result from injury or congenital (present at birth) deformities. Both legs maybe affected.

The most commonly encountered luxation at your veterinarian's office medial patellar luxation in small or miniature dog breeds. This type of luxation is mainly a congenital or developmental condition. It is graded on a scale of 1 to 4, with grade 4 being most severe.

The crippling effects of patellar luxation are related to the severity and duration of the luxation. The milder forms, especially in small breeds, show little or no signs, and only minimal treatments required. Severe cases cause more intense pain, with limping.

Grade 1 luxations may respond well to anti-inflammatory therapy and restricted exercise. These may or may not progress to worsening grades.

Grades 2 through 4 luxations tend to require surgical corrections. The worse the luxations the more reconstructive surgery required to provide a functional joint.

Treatment Information:

Treatment ranges from rest (decreasing your pet's activity for 1-2 weeks) to surgical reconstruction of the knee joint.
Treatment is based upon the severity of signs and your pet's age, breed and weight.
Obesity complicates surgery and convalescence. A weight-reduction program may be required in conjunction with treatment.

We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please call your veterinarian's office, or feel free to e-mail us.

David E. Hammett, DVM
and the Staff of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic, PC