Patella Luxation known as " the wobbly kneecap"

Patella luxation is one of the most common orthopaedic condition in dogs occurring in nearly 10% of all puppies.

Patella luxation commonly affects smaller dog breeds where the kneecap moves inwards. t is a condition whereby the kneecap (patella) intermittently or permanently sits outside the groove in which it should sit. Unfortunately, in small breed dogs, this condition is often inherited from its parents. When the patella is out of the groove it may cause an unstable joint and the dog often holds its back leg up. Over time, this constant moving of the kneecap can cause arthritis and pain.

Early diagnosis is best so that the condition can be managed. This may include pain medication, nutraceuticals, weight management, and surgery. Over 50% of dogs that suffer a luxating patella are affected in both legs.

Breeds commonly affected:

Pomeranian
Cocker Spaniel
Yorkshire terrier
Chow chow
Bedlington Terrier
Japanese Chin
Pug
Dachshund

SIGNS

Common signs of luxating patella:

Little or intermittent limping
Sudden limping while running
Lifting the affected leg off the ground intermittently
Bowlegged
Reluctance to jump

CAUSES

Common causes of luxating patella:

Genetics
Trauma

MANAGEMENT

Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose a luxating patella on palpation of the knee joint. Your veterinarian will palpate the knee, look for joint instability, pain and arthritis. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.

Common grading of luxating patella:

Grade 1: the kneecap can be moved out of the joint but returns to normal
Grade 2: the kneecap moves spontaneously during movement but returns to normal when the knee extends
Grade 3: the kneecap is out most of the time but can be returned
Grade 4: the kneecap is out permanently and cannot be returned

A dog with a Grade 1 luxating patella runs around happily, only intermittently lifts its leg off the ground, and shows no pain. These dogs may only require rest and occasional pain relief.

Where the luxating patella is causing lameness and pain, treatment is warranted to help restore the joint so that the dog can move normally. In these cases, surgery is often the treatment of choice to help stabilize the joint and prevent early arthritis. There are many different surgical techniques. Dr David Stasiuk has over 20 years of surgical experience with patella repair. Call 0557 9500 to discuss the technique appropriate for your pet with Dr David Stasiuk