subject: Complications of a Luxating Patella [print this page] Complications of a Luxating Patella Complications of a Luxating Patella
In this instance the dog may not react much, or may act like it is in pain, but the patella will often slid back into place on its own.
There are four grades of severity for the luxating patella.
Dogs with grade two luxations will often demonstrate spontaneous lameness that will quickly go away, for instance when a dog will occasionally carry its leg up for two or three steps then puts it down. Another consideration for dogs with luxating patella is that they should never be bred as this is considered a congenital problem. Subluxation of the patella is a partial luxation, meaning that the knee will only partially slip out of the joint before it goes back in.
They may even have a stiff legged gait or won't use the leg at all.
In Grade four the knee will luxate and can not be returned to its socket when manually manipulated.
Surgery can correct this problem but as this is an orthopedic surgery there can be changes in bone or joints that are hidden. This may lead to stiff joints as the dog ages and could also lead to arthritis because of the slippage of the joint over time. The Patella is equivalent to the dog's knee. Over time dogs with low-grade luxation may worsen, for example a grade one could be come a grade two. Sometimes dogs with grade two luxations will yelp but often they do not display many symptoms. please visit TPLO for more information.It is common in Boston Terriers and toy breeds, such as Pomeranians, Chihuahuas and other Terrier breeds, that are prone to weak ligaments.
