Medial patellar luxation means the kneecap slips out of its groove toward the inside of the leg.

It causes intermittent skipping lameness, knee pain, cartilage wear, and early arthritis.

 

It is common in small-breed dogs (Pomeranians, Yorkshire T, Poodles, French/English Bulldogs, Chihuahuas) and seen in bigger breeds and cats too.

 

Surgery is recommended when:

• Lameness is persistent

• Pain is present

• There is limb deformity or instability

• The pet cannot exercise normally

• Luxation is Grade 2+ with clinical signs

 

Mild, incidental MPL with no pain may be managed conservatively but still tend to worsen gradually over time.