Outcomes and complications of a modified tibial tuberosity transposition technique in the treatment of medial patellar luxation in dogs

Abstract

Objective: To report a modification of the tibial tuberosity transposition (m-TTT) technique used to treat medial patellar luxation (MPL) in dogs, and report its complications. Study design: Retrospective case series.Sample population: Dogs (n = 235) undergoing MPL correction, using m-TTT (n = 300 stifles). Methods: Medical records and client surveys were reviewed to determine complications associated with this technique and they were compared with previously reported complications using similar techniques.Results: Short-term minor complications included low-grade reluxation (11 stifles, 3.6%), incisional seroma (nine stifles, 3%), pin-associated swelling (seven stifles, 2.3%), patellar desmitis (six stifles, 2%), superficial incisional infection (four stifles, 1.3%), pin migration (three stifles, 1%), tibial tuberosity (TT) fracture (two stifles, 0.6%), tibial tuberosity displacement and patella alta (one stifle, 0.3%), pin-associated discomfort (one stifle, 0.3%), trochlear block fracture (one stifle, 0.3%). Short-term major complications included pin migration (three stifles, 1%), incisional infection (two stifles, 0.6%), tibial tuberosity fracture (two stifles, 0.6%), and high grade reluxation (two stifles, 0.6%). Longterm follow-up examination data were available for 109/300 (36.3%) stifles.One minor complication and four major complications were documented. All long-term complications were due to pin migration. The overall major complication rate was 4.3% (13/300 stifles), with a minor complication rate of 15% (46/300 stifles). The owner survey indicated a 100% satisfaction rate. Conclusion: The m-TTT technique yielded acceptable complication rates, with high owner satisfaction. Clinical significance: The m-TTT should be considered as an alternative technique for treating dogs with MPL requiring a tibial tuberosity transposition.

Early Surgical Management of Medial Patellar Luxation in Juvenile Dogs

“…In contrast, surgical treatments of medial patellar luxation are usually associated with high complication rates, which can range from 8% to near to 45%, especially in patients with higher degrees of luxation. [19][20][21][22] The absence of luxation recurrence may be closely related to adequate correction of the extensor mechanism alignment. 19 In the only complication reported here, treated as a major complication, there was a need for reintervention due to implant failure, this being one of the causes listed as predisposing to the new surgical approach, 20 although the failure was related to domestic trauma and not to the previous procedure.…”