Does a luxating patella cause any long-term problems for my dog?
Some dogs can tolerate this problem for many years, some for all of their lives. However, this anatomical abnormality present weakness predisposes the patella to other injuries, especially torn cruciate ligaments. With advancing age, the joint may become arthritic and painful. Can a luxating patella be corrected? Surgery should be performed if your dog has a persistent lameness or if other knee injuries occur secondary to the luxation. Surgical repair is a three step process. 1. The point of attachment of the patellar ligament is moved and transplanted surgically to its proper location to correct the incorrect alignment. 2. The groove in the femur is deepened so the patella will stay in place. 3. The capsule around the joint is tightened. This last step is important because the joint capsule will have stretched during the period of luxation. If the surgery is performed before arthritis occurs, the prognosis is excellent. Your dog should regain full use of its leg. However, if arthritis
