Patellar dislocation is common in small breed dogs, such as toy, miniature, and some large breeds. The main symptom is the kneecap, which is normally located in a groove in the knee, moves out of place and out of the groove. It can be congenital, inherited, or caused by trauma.
Symptoms are divided by grade as follows:
Grade 1 The patella remains in the groove and may occasionally move out of the groove. When pushed with the hand, it can easily slide out, but when released, it will bounce back into the groove. The dog may not yet show any symptoms, cry out in pain, or walk abnormally.Grade 2 The patella will become dislocated more frequently. When it does, it will remain outside the groove. Sometimes, it may cry out in pain and walk with its hind leg raised. Dogs with this level of patella dislocation for a long time may experience damage to the cartilage in the joint surface from the patella rubbing against the bone ridge, which may lead to osteoarthritis.
Grade 3 The patella will constantly move out of position and may also experience twisting of the leg bone, twisting to a degree of about 30-50 degrees. The dog is unable to straighten the leg and will therefore remain in a bent knee position, refusing to bear weight and experiencing constant pain. However, the patella may be able to be pushed back by straightening the knee and twisting the bone. However, if the leg is bent or used again, the patella will move back out of the groove as before.
Grade 4 The patella is permanently dislocated and cannot be pushed back. The leg bone is twisted more than 50-90 degrees. The groove that supports the patella may become shallow or disappear completely. The dog will cry out in constant pain, be unable to straighten the knee joint, and will walk with a dragging leg.
Treatment guidelines
1. History taking and physical examination
2. X-rays to assess the severity of the disease.
3. Surgical surgery
4. Physical therapy may be necessary to rehabilitate muscles and improve joint function.
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