Patella Luxation Treatment in Stockton, CA

Patella Luxation in Dogs: A Common Canine Condition

Patella luxation, also known as "slipped stifle," is a common orthopedic condition in dogs, especially small breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pomeranians. It occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal groove in the femur (thigh bone).

Types of Patella Luxation

There are four grades of patella luxation, ranging from mild to severe:

Grade 1: The patella occasionally slips out of place but easily pops back into position.

Grade 2: The patella frequently slips out of place but can be manually manipulated back into position.

Grade 3: The patella is permanently luxated and cannot be manually manipulated back into position.

Grade 4: The patella is permanently luxated and rotated, causing significant instability in the knee joint.

Symptoms of Patella Luxation

Limping or lameness

Skipping gait

Holding the affected leg up

Pain or discomfort

Reduced range of motion in the affected leg

Treatment Options

The treatment for patella luxation depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, conservative treatment, such as pain management and physical therapy, may be sufficient. However, in more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying issue.

Surgical options include:

Tibial Tuberosity Trochleoplasty (TTTP): This procedure involves repositioning the tibial tuberosity (the bony bump where the patella tendon attaches) to improve the alignment of the patella.

Trochleoplasty: This procedure involves reshaping the groove in the femur to better accommodate the patella.

Post-Operative Care

After surgery, it's important to follow your veterinarian's instructions for post-operative care. This may include:

Rest: Confining your dog to a crate or a small, enclosed area.

Pain Management: Administering pain medication as prescribed by your veterinarian.

Physical Therapy: Performing exercises to help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint.

Testimonial

What They Say

I called Walker Veterinary Hospital at 7:30 in the morning because my fur baby needed an urgent procedure, they fit me in same day within an hour or so of calling and from the moment I walked through those doors I was met with such compassion and kindness. It was such a scary and uncertain time but Dr. Hung and everybody I encountered was kind and knowledgeable and honestly exactly what I needed! My baby is on her road to recovery because of the excellent and timely care she received and I will FOREVER be grateful for them, Doctor called the morning after the procedure to check on her recovery and I just cannot express how much it means to know my girl was in the hands of someone so caring!

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Jenn C

The worst day of our life happened… our boxer Bo’s life came to an end, he was unable to walk anymore. He could barely breathe, and it was time we went to Walker vet, and they took care of things. Someone was really paying attention because they realize the level of grief we were experiencing today in the mail unexpectedly, we received a pair of paw prints Words cannot express how heartfelt this is.

Lauren Johnson

This site saved my dog’s life. My ESA and best friend was limping one day and we went to another site around town, and they prescribed him carprofen. It made things worse. We went to get a second opinion as things worsened at Walker. The doctor walked through symptoms with us, had me feel the lymph nodes in his back leg, and he was diagnosed with Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA). We don’t know what caused it but his body was destroying its own red blood cells. After this was identified he was put on steroids and antibiotics and he is in full recovery! He is back to his normal personality. I owe everything to Walker’s staff for saving my buddy.

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Cody Eliff

We visited Walker Vet because we heard Dr. Hung was familiar with FIP in cats. Her knowledge, and her care, put us at ease and saved our cat’s life. She explained the details to us like a friend. She was genuinely concerned about his life, and helping us to build a strong at-home care regimen. The front office staff is professional and friendly. They operate smoothly and support the doctors well. Of my many phone calls, even on very busy days, I never received any attitude. Just good people helping other people and their pets.

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Randy

My dog has always received the best care from Dr. Connie. My boy can be a handful at times, and Dr. Connie is always very patient with him, as well as with me, in answering all my questions and concerns regarding my fur baby's care. All the staff have always treated us with respect and care. I recommend Wallker Vet, especially Dr. Connie, to all my friends and family! Thank you for all your care, Dr. Connie! We appreciate you.