Luxating Patella Treatment for Dogs at Lombard Veterinary Hospital in Partnership with Midwest Veterinary Surgical Services
At Lombard Veterinary Hospital, we believe that understanding your dog’s condition is the first step toward effective treatment. A luxating patella, commonly called a dislocated kneecap, is one of the most frequent orthopedic issues seen in dogs.
Without proper care, the condition can progress, causing arthritis and increasing the risk of other knee injuries. Our experienced team at Lombard Veterinary Hospital, in Lombard, Illinois, provides advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment options, and expert surgical care when needed, so your dog can recover and return to a comfortable, active life.
Now in partnership with Midwest Veterinary Surgical Services, we’re excited to offer specialized orthopedic care focused on improving your dog’s mobility, comfort, and quality of life. Together, our teams work seamlessly to deliver advanced treatment and compassionate care.
What Is a Luxating Patella in Dogs?
A luxating patella occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal position in the groove of the thighbone (femur). In most cases, luxating patella is caused by a combination of genetic and structural factors. Many dogs with this condition are born with a shallow groove in their thighbone or limb alignment issues that allow the kneecap to slip out of place.
While genetics play a significant role, trauma can also cause patellar luxation in some cases. The dislocation can be:
- The inside of the knee (medial patellar luxation, MPL): More common in small breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Toy Poodles, and Pomeranians.
- The outside of the knee (lateral patellar luxation, LPL): More often seen in larger breeds, sometimes linked with hip dysplasia.
Luxating patella can affect one or both knees and may lead to arthritis or other knee injuries, such as a cranial cruciate ligament rupture, over time.
Signs of Patellar Luxation in Dogs
Symptoms can vary depending on severity, but common signs include:
- A “skipping” gait where your dog briefly holds up a hind leg
- Difficulty jumping or rising
- A leg that angles outward when sitting
- Intermittent or progressive lameness
In mild cases, signs may be occasional and subtle. In more severe cases, the dislocation occurs more frequently, leading to pain and long-term joint damage.
Diagnosis
Our veterinarians perform a thorough orthopedic examination to grade the luxation on a scale of 1 to 4 and assess how it affects your dog’s movement. Digital X-rays may be recommended to evaluate bone alignment, arthritis, or related orthopedic conditions. In some cases, advanced imaging such as CT or MRI may be used to assist with surgical planning.
Treatment Options
Without treatment, the kneecap may dislocate more frequently and contribute to progressive joint damage. Treatment plans are customized based on your dog’s severity, comfort, and lifestyle.
Medical Management
Mild cases may not require surgery. Instead, we may recommend:
- Weight management
- Joint supplements
- NSAIDs for pain relief
- Exercise restriction
- Physical therapy
Medical management often takes several weeks to show improvement and may need to be repeated if flare-ups occur. These flare-ups may follow activity or arise without an obvious trigger.
Surgical Correction
Dogs with frequent dislocations, persistent lameness, or significant discomfort often benefit most from surgery. Through our partnership with Midwest Veterinary Surgical Services, surgical care is led by Dr. Aaron Jackson, a board-certified veterinary surgeon with advanced training and experience in orthopedic procedures.
Surgical options may include:
- Deepening the femoral groove to keep the kneecap in place
- Adjusting surrounding soft tissues to stabilize the kneecap
- Realigning bone structure when necessary
Dr. Jackson also brings extensive experience in procedures such as TPLO surgery, cruciate ligament repair, and fracture repair, allowing for comprehensive orthopedic care when multiple conditions are present.
Surgical recovery typically takes at least 8 weeks. Follow-up visits and physical rehabilitation are essential to support healing, restore mobility, and achieve the best possible outcome.
Recovery and Long-Term Management
Whether managed medically or surgically, patellar luxation requires ongoing care and monitoring:
- Medical management: Improvement may take several weeks, and flare-ups can occur throughout your dog’s life.
- Surgical recovery: Expect at least 8 weeks of restricted activity. Physical rehabilitation and follow-up exams help ensure proper healing. Most dogs regain good stability and mobility, especially when surgery is performed before severe arthritis develops.
Why Choose Lombard Veterinary Hospital for Dog Patellar Luxation Surgery in Lombard?
In partnership with Midwest Veterinary Surgical Services, Lombard Veterinary Hospital is proud to offer advanced orthopedic care close to home. With Dr. Aaron Jackson’s board-certified expertise and our dedicated veterinary team, we provide personalized treatment plans, modern surgical techniques, and compassionate support every step of the way.
Together, our teams are here to help your dog heal, recover, and get back to the activities they love.
If your dog is showing signs of a luxating patella, contact Lombard Veterinary Hospital in Lombard today to schedule an evaluation.