Bilateral lateral patellar luxation in a calf

Abstract

This case report documents the surgical treatment of bilateral lateral patellar luxation in a calf and the outcome by clinical examination, radiography, CT and postmortem examination. A 21-day-old calf was referred because of severe hindlimb weakness. Orthopaedic examination and radiographs revealed a grade 3 bilateral lateral patellar luxation with normal stifle bone anatomy. Surgery consisted of lateral desmotomy with excision of proliferative capsular tissues and imbrication of the medial retinaculum and resulted in anatomic repositioning of the patella. Aftercare consisted of treatment with ampicillin and meloxicam, a modified Robert Jones bandage with a spica splint and physiotherapy. In between surgeries CT was performed. The lameness in both hindlimbs gradually improved over time and the calf developed a normal stance and gait. After euthanasia CT was repeated and pathology performed, showing normal articular cartilage of the stifle and correct location of the patellae without signs of inflammation.

Congenital Unilateral Lateral Patellar Luxation in a Simmental Calf

“…It has been reported that recurrence (%35) is the most common complication of LPL in dogs (15). However, in calf the main complications are wound infection and grade 2 dislocation (1). In our case, we did not encounter any complication following the postoperative six weeks.…”

“…Patellar luxations have been reported in various species including dog (8), llamas (9), rabbit (10), (11), foal (12), and horse (13). The etiological reasons of patella dislocations are classified as congenital, traumatic, and developmental (1). Traumatic patella luxation is generally observed in large animals and mostly they are congenital (14).…”

“…Lateral patellar luxation (LPL) in calves is a rare disorder in which unilateral or bilateral involvement has been observed (1). Its origin can be congenital or secondary (1,2).…”

“…Lateral patellar luxation (LPL) in calves is a rare disorder in which unilateral or bilateral involvement has been observed (1). Its origin can be congenital or secondary (1,2). Causes of congenital patellar luxation involve weakness of the medial patellofemoral ligament, hypoplasia of the trochlear groove, medial rotation of the tibia, and the posture position in the uterus (3).…”

“…Calves with a displacement of the patella are suffering from pain, cartilage damage, and arthritis (4). The LPL in calves is diagnosed with physical and radiological examination (1). The treatment methods of patella luxation include, lateral or medial desmotomy, medial (lateral) imbrication of the joint capsule and fascia, lateral (medial) tibial tuberosity transposition, osteotomies of femur or tibia, and trochleoplasty (2).…”