Patellar Luxation and Correction 

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Patellar luxation is a common orthopedic condition in dogs and occurs when the kneecap (patella) dislocates out of its normal position within the femoral groove. This results in intermittent or persistent hind limb lameness, pain, abnormal gait, and progressive development of osteoarthritis. It is frequently seen as an inherited developmental condition in small and toy breeds such as Toy Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, and Jack Russell Terriers, but can also occur in larger breeds and in cats. In some patients, patellar luxation is associated with other underlying orthopedic abnormalities, including angular limb deformities or concurrent cranial cruciate ligament disease.

While mild cases may appear intermittent early on, this is a structural orthopedic problem that typically progresses over time. Surgical correction is the only treatment that addresses the underlying mechanical instability and provides a long-term functional solution.

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So, what sets our program apart?

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Espanola Animal Hospital is a small, privately owned referral hospital focused exclusively on advanced orthopedic and spinal surgery. Patellar luxation correction is a routine part of our surgical caseload and something we perform regularly as part of our daily orthopedic practice.

We provide advanced surgical care at a significantly lower cost than many specialty referral centres, while maintaining a strong focus on delivering cutting edge surgical care, individualized case planning, and attentive post-op care. We are with you every step of the way!

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Advanced diagnostics and surgical planning techniques

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Successful correction of patellar luxation depends on identifying and addressing all contributing anatomical abnormalities. In more complex or recurrent cases, we utilize advanced pre-operative imaging including CT evaluation to assess femoral and tibial alignment, joint conformation, and rotational deformities.

Our hospital is equipped with a dedicated CT scanner and in-house 3D printing capability, allowing us to create patient-specific anatomical models for surgical planning when angular limb deformities are present. This enables more accurate pre-surgical planning and improved intra-operative decision making in complex cases.

Surgical correction may include a combination of procedures tailored to the individual patient, such as trochlear modification, tibial tuberosity transposition, soft tissue balancing, and corrective osteotomies when required.

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Comprehensive care and recovery support

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Every patellar luxation case is managed as part of a complete orthopedic treatment plan from diagnosis through surgery and recovery. This includes detailed pre-operative assessment, individualized surgical planning, and structured post-operative care designed to optimize comfort and return to function.

Post-operative management may include multimodal pain control, controlled rehabilitation protocols, physiotherapy, and adjunctive treatments such as platelet-rich plasma therapy in selected cases to support healing and recovery.

Our goal is to provide a consistent, structured recovery process that supports long-term joint health and minimizes the risk of recurrence.

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Referrals

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We accept referrals from primary care veterinarians and work closely with referring clinics to ensure coordinated case management. 

Clients may also contact us directly to discuss suitability for patellar luxation correction or to arrange consultation.

For more information regarding diagnostics, surgical planning, or case suitability, please contact Espanola Animal Hospital at (705) 869-0090 or email info@espanolavet.ca.

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Cost of uncomplicated repair is $4,000 + HST.  Please follow the link above to read the client handout on patellar luxation.

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