Patellar Luxation(PL)
Also known as: Kniescheibenluxation · Luxatio patellae · Slipping kneecap · Patellaluxation des Hundes · Patellaluxation · …
Overview
What it is
Patellar luxation, also known as a luxating patella, is a physical condition affecting the knee joint where the kneecap slips out of its normal groove. This misalignment interferes with the mechanical movement of the hind leg and can cause the joint to lock. Over time, this abnormal friction can lead to painful joint wear and tear, known as osteoarthritis.
How it presents
Owners typically notice a sudden, temporary limp or a skipping gait where the dog runs on three legs for a few steps before returning to normal. These signs usually become apparent at a young age, typically between a few months and one year old.
Treatment
While mild cases can be managed with physical therapy, moderate to severe cases require surgical correction to stabilize the kneecap. Treatment costs typically range from 1,000 to 5,000 EUR per affected knee, depending on whether surgery is required.
How it's tested
Patella-Untersuchung (Putnam)(Patella)
Primary testClinical examManuelle Untersuchung des Kniegelenks auf Patellaluxation (Grad 0-4). Wichtig bei kleinen Rassen.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Patella-Putnam
Affected breeds
24 of 177 breeds
Mandatory testAiredale TerrierMandated by Klub für Terrier e.V.
Mandatory testAlaskan Klee Kai
Mandatory testAmerican Hairless Terrier
Mandatory testAustralian ShepherdMandated by Club für Australian Shepherd Deutschland e.V. (CASD)
Mandatory testAustralian TerrierMandated by Klub für Terrier von 1894 e. V.
Mandatory testAustrian Pinscher
Mandatory testBedlington TerrierMandated by AKC/CHIC
Mandatory testBelgian Griffon
Mandatory testBichon Frise
Mandatory testBiewer TerrierMandated by Verband Deutscher Kleinhundezüchter e.V.
Mandatory testBlack Russian TerrierMandated by Klub für Terrier e.V.
Mandatory testBolognese
Mandatory testBolonka Zwetna
Mandatory testBorder TerrierMandated by AKC/CHIC (Border Terrier Club of America)
Mandatory testBoykin Spaniel
Mandatory testBrabant Griffon
Mandatory testBrazilian Terrier
Mandatory testBrussels Griffon
Mandatory testCairn TerrierMandated by Klub für Terrier e.V. (KfT)
Mandatory testCane CorsoMandated by Cane Corso Association of America (CCAA) / AKC CHIC
Mandatory testCavalier King Charles Spaniel
Mandatory testCavapoochon
Mandatory testCesky TerrierMandated by American Cesky Terrier Fanciers Association (ACTFA) / CHIC
Mandatory testChihuahua
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Patellar Luxation?
Patellar luxation, also known as a luxating patella, is a physical condition affecting the knee joint where the kneecap slips out of its normal groove. This misalignment interferes with the mechanical movement of the hind leg and can cause the joint to lock. Over time, this abnormal friction can lead to painful joint wear and tear, known as osteoarthritis.
How is Patellar Luxation tested?
Tests currently in our database: Patella-Untersuchung (Putnam).
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Airedale Terrier, Alaskan Klee Kai, American Hairless Terrier, Australian Shepherd, Australian Terrier, Austrian Pinscher, Bedlington Terrier, Belgian Griffon.