Luxating Patella Information
Patella luxation is graded from 1 to 4 (See sidebar) based on the ease with which the patella luxates, with grade 1 being the mildest and grade 4 the most severe. With grades 1 and 2 the dog may not even show any symptoms, while with grades 3 and 4 the dogs are usually lame.If the condition is left uncorrected after grade 2 the patellar ridges wear down further, making the groove shallower, causing the dog to become progressively more lame. Arthritis will prematurely affect the joint causing a swollen knee and limited mobility. This is why a good evaluation needs to be done by a veterinarian early in the condition to prevent long-term arthritis and joint changes.Surgery is the only solution for a luxating patella, although therapy is sometimes helpful in grade 1 cases. The surgery cost ranges based on each case, but is usually around $1000-$1500 per leg.There are 3 different ways a veterinarian will approach the surgery. The first will deepen the groove at the base of the femur to better contain the patella. The kneecap can also be tied down on the outside of the patellar groove to keep it from jumping to the inside. In addition the bony protuberance at the site of the attachment of the quadriceps tendon on the tibia can be cut off and re-attached in a more lateral position. All of these procedures work well and are a permanent fix to the condition. The type of surgery performed depends on the individual case.Recovery takes up to a month and a half after surgery. The dog is usually back to using its leg in a normal fashion within 30 days, but does need some extra TLC during this time and also requires some leg exercises during the recovery. Discussing options for a trick knee with your veterinarian is important to keeping the condition from progressing and in some cases therapy and a little care can keep your dog from needing surgery.Grade 1:Occasional carrying of the leg is seen, often described as skipping or hopping, with the leg returning to normal by itself.Grade 2:The frequency of luxation increases, more likely becoming a permanent condition. When palpated by the veterinarian, a dry, crackling sensation (crepitation) may occur in the joint. If not surgically treated at this point it can develop into degenerative joint changes.Grade 3:Permanent dislocation that occurs though weight bearing is possible. The dog's stance will appear somewhat crouching or bowlegged. Surgical intervention should not be delayed.Grade 4:Permanent luxation, with the affected limb always being carried, creates a bowlegged / crouching stance. Surgery is strongly recommended as soon as possible at this stage as bone deformities of the femur and tibia can occur.
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