The patella is the medical name for the kneecap. If your pet has a luxating patella, it means that their kneecap has moved out of position. Normally, the kneecap rests comfortably in a deep groove in the femur bone known as the patellofemoral groove.
When the knee is moved, the patella slides smoothly over the cartilage in the groove. In pets with a luxating patella, the kneecap has become dislocated from the patellofemoral groove and is unable to slide smoothly up and down. A luxating patella is relatively common in dogs, and small breeds are particularly prone to developing it. Cats can also suffer from a luxating patella, but the condition is comparatively rare.
Causes of Luxating Patella
A luxating patella is usually caused by a congenital condition that is present at birth. Other possible causes include developmental and genetic factors, as well as trauma to the ligaments, bones, or soft tissue of the knee.
Symptoms of Luxating Patella
The symptoms of a luxating patella depend largely on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common signs include abnormal movement of the limbs, occasional lameness, limping, restricted mobility, and swelling.
Diagnosis of Luxating Patella
If the underlying cause of the condition is congenital, your veterinarian may make a diagnosis early in your pet’s life during a routine examination.
Take your pet to your veterinarian for a checkup as soon as possible if you notice the signs of a luxating patella. Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination, including manipulation of the knee joint to check for signs of luxation. Since this procedure can be painful, sedation may be required.
A luxating patella may also be diagnosed by analyzing a fluid sample taken from the joint. This procedure is known as arthrocentesis. Other possible diagnostic tests include radiographs and CT scans which can be used to assess the condition of the joint.
Treatment of Luxating Patella
Your veterinarian will consider the severity of the condition and your pet’s general health when deciding on a course of treatment. Non-surgical options include dietary changes, restricted exercise, medication, and careful monitoring of your pet’s weight. Hydrotherapy and massage therapy may also be recommended. These methods of treatment are best suited to pets with less severe cases of a luxating patella.
If your pet’s condition is more advanced, surgery is usually the preferred treatment. Operational techniques include reconstruction of the tissue and ligaments surrounding the patella, realignment of bones to stabilize the joint, or bone shaping to deepen the patellofemoral groove and allow the patella to rest in its anatomically correct position.
The outlook for pets is generally good following surgery. Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s guidelines for recovery to help your pet return to health as soon as possible.
Prevention of Luxating Patella
There are no known preventative measures for a luxating patella. The best way to protect your pet is to monitor them for symptoms of the condition and take them for regular checkups with your veterinarian.
