Summary
Objective
To report the signalment and clinical features of dogs with non-traumatic lateral
patellar luxation and to report the complications and outcomes following surgery.
Methods
A multicentre retrospective study was performed. Medical records were reviewed and
the signalment, clinical features, and treatment of dogs presenting with lateral patellar
luxation were recorded. In dogs treated surgically, the outcome and complications
were investigated.
Results
Sixty-five dogs (95 stifles) were included; 39 were male and median age at presentation
was 10 months. Breeds were classified as small (n = 6), medium (n = 23), large (n
= 27), and giant (n = 9). Lateral patellar luxation was classified as grade I (n =
14), II (n = 41), III (n = 29), and IV (n = 11). Conformational abnormalities were
noted in 34 stifles; genu valgum was the most common (n = 28). Higher-grade luxation
was associated with a younger age at presentation (p = 0.032) and genu valgum (p =
0.01). Surgery was performed on 58 stifles, 22 of which sustained one or more complications;
16 complications were managed conservatively, four with implant removal and six with
revision surgery. Surgeon-assessed outcome was good or excellent in 47 of the 51 dogs
available for review.
Conclusions
Non-traumatic lateral patellar luxation is a disease of predominantly medium and large
breed dogs. It has several similar clinical features and can be surgically treated
in a similar manner to medial patellar luxation with similar types of complications
and outcomes expected.
Keywords
Patellar - luxation - dog - lateral
