4208 Lind Ave, SW Renton, WA

Patellar Luxation Surgery for Dogs and Cats

Patellar Luxation happens when the kneecap moves out of its normal spot in the knee joint. The luxation typically occurs in a medial (towards the inside) direction but can also be lateral (towards the outside). This can cause discomfort, limping, reduced mobility, and, if left untreated, ongoing joint damage. This is typically a congenital/developmental condition that has been present in the pet’s entire life. In some cases, pets are evaluated when young because there is pain, discomfort or limping noted by the owner. In other cases, it is the older pet that has had a patella luxation their whole life and has now developed an injury to the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). This is because the
presence of a patella luxation appears to increase the chance of tearing the CCL.
 
At Boreal Animal Surgery, we offer patellar luxation surgery for dogs and cats to help stabilize their knees, improve their mobility, and ease their pain. We create treatment plans tailored to your pet’s age, activity, and orthopedic needs. Throughout recovery, we keep you informed and support you every step of the way.
 
We want to help your pet return to a comfortable, active life with a stronger, more stable knee.
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What is MPL

What is Patella Luxation?

Patellar luxation happens when the kneecap, or patella, moves out of its normal groove at the end of the femur. Usually, the kneecap shifts toward the inside of the leg (medial) but can also shift toward the outside (lateral). In both cases, the quadriceps muscle mechanism cannot function properly, resulting in instability, pain, and the development of arthritis.
 
Patellar luxation can be mild or more serious, depending on the pet. Clinically, there is a grading system that is used to classify severity. For example, a Grade I patella luxation
only occurs when someone “pushes” the patella out of place, whereas in a Grade IV luxation the patella is permanently out of place. If left untreated, severe cases can lead to arthritis, cartilage damage, and reduced mobility. In many cases, it is also present in both knees.
  
The best treatment option for patellar luxation depends on its severity, your pet’s symptoms, activity level, and overall well-being. At your consultation, we will assess your pet’s condition and discuss the best ways to help your pet feel comfortable and move more comfortably.
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Why Choose Boreal Animal Surgery

Compassionate Surgical Care Backed by Experience

Board-Certified Surgical Expertise

Patellar luxation can range from a mild, intermittent issue to a condition that significantly affects a pet's comfort and mobility. Dr. Duane Robinson is a board-certified veterinary surgeon with extensive experience diagnosing and treating orthopedic conditions, including patellar luxation in both dogs and cats.

Advanced Surgical Techniques

Successful patellar luxation surgery requires careful correction of the factors contributing to kneecap instability. Depending on your pet's specific condition, surgery may involve one or more techniques designed to improve patellar alignment, restore joint stability, and support normal knee function.

Personalized Treatment Planning

Every patient is different. We evaluate your pet's age, activity level, degree of luxation, overall health, and orthopedic needs before recommending treatment. Our goal is to develop a personalized plan that improves comfort, mobility, and long-term joint health.

Recovery & Communication

Recovery plays an important role in achieving a successful outcome following patellar luxation surgery. We provide detailed post-operative instructions, activity recommendations, and ongoing support throughout the healing process. Our team works closely with both pet owners and referring veterinarians to help ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome for every patient.

MPL Our Approach

Our Approach

At Boreal Animal Surgery, we know how important a stable, comfortable knee is for your pet’s movement and well-being. We will work to characterize the grade of luxation and also evaluate them for other orthopedic issues/concerns. In the end, we will create a treatment plan tailored to your pet.
 
Here’s what you can expect during our evaluation and treatment process:
 
  • Review your pet’s medical history, exam results, and any diagnostic images (X-rays).
  • Check how stable your pet’s kneecap is and how well the knee joint works.
  • Assess the severity of the luxation and check for any other changes in the bones or joints.
  • Create a personalized treatment plan for your pet that will include both surgical and non-surgical options.
  • If indicated, perform surgery to help align the kneecap and make the joint more stable.
  • Give you clear advice on how to help your pet recover and regain strength.
  • Collaborate with your primary care veterinarian to monitor recovery.
 
Depending on your pet’s needs, we may use more than one surgical technique to fix the problem and help keep the knee stable in the long run. Our goal is to help your pet move comfortably, stay active, and keep their joints healthy for years.
MPL - What to Expect

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovery plays a key role in the success of patellar luxation surgery. Limiting your pet’s activity and following a set rehabilitation plan will help protect the knee as it heals and gets stronger.
 
Most pets regain use of their leg within a few weeks after surgery. While this is a good sign, it’s important to follow a strict recovery plan to ensure the best possible outcome.
 
The recovery process may include:
 
  • Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications
  • Restricted activity during the initial healing period
  • Gradual return to walking and exercise
  • Follow-up examinations and x-rays to monitor healing and joint function
  • Rehabilitation exercises when appropriate
 
Each pet heals differently, but most continue to improve in the weeks and months after surgery. With proper care and rehabilitation, many dogs and cats can return to being active and comfortable, with stronger, more stable knees.

Frequently Asked Questions About Patellar Luxation Procedures

Review some FAQs on patellar luxation procedures to get a better understanding, or contact us to discuss further. If you’d like to learn more about the process as a pet owner, click below.
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Patellar luxation surgery costs depend on your pet’s size, health, the tests needed, and recovery care. We will provide you with a clear estimate and discuss all recommended care before the surgery. At Boreal Animal Surgery, providing expert care at affordable pricing is our ultimate goal.

Common signs include skipping, hopping, limping, holding a hind leg up temporarily, stiffness, or an abnormal gait that comes and goes.

In many cases, patellar luxation can be diagnosed during a physical examination by your veterinarian. X-rays may also be recommended to evaluate the knee and assist with surgical planning.

Not always. Treatment recommendations depend on the severity of the luxation, your pet’s comfort level, and how much the condition affects mobility and quality of life.

Surgery may involve several procedures to improve kneecap stability and alignment within the knee joint. The exact approach depends on your pet’s anatomy and condition.

Most pets require several months for full recovery, although many begin improving much earlier during the healing process.

Yes. Although more common in dogs, cats can also experience patellar luxation and may benefit from surgical treatment depending on the severity of the condition.

Only some cases of patella luxation surgery require  implants. When they do, we use only the highest quality implants for your pet. That’s why we are pleased to work with Arthrex Pet to source our implants. These are the same implants that are used in people.

Concerned About Your Pet's Knee?

If your dog or cat is limping, skipping, has an unstable kneecap, or is moving differently, we are ready to help. We will check your pet’s condition, discuss treatment options, and determine whether patella luxation surgery is the right choice.
 
At Boreal Animal Surgery, we offer orthopedic consultations and surgery for pets across Western Washington. From your first visit to recovery, you will get expert advice, clear updates, and care tailored to help your pet feel comfortable and move well again.
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