Patellar luxation

Medial or lateral patellar luxation is a common problem in the canine and feline populations which results in displacement of the patella outside of the normal confines of the distal femur. 

The result is discomfort and poor functional use of the quadriceps musculature.  It is often an intermittent problem and varies in severity and clinical signs.  

Correction of the problem is aimed at correcting patellar tracking to prevent further cartilage damage and improve strength of the stifle.  The primary corrective procedures include realignment of the quadriceps musculature through transposition of bony attachment sites for the muscle as well as deepening the groove that the patella is designed to travel in.  In addition, various soft tissue augmentation procedures are performed to further provide stability to the patella.  

Prognosis is generally good with most dogs experiencing a full return to function.  Complications include general incisional issues, recurrence of the patellar luxation, and progression of osteoarthritis but are overall minimal in consequence.