Patella Luxation in Dogs: Repair for Dislocated Kneecaps
If you’ve noticed your dog “skipping” while walking, occasionally holding up a back leg, or suddenly yelping in pain before resuming normal activity, your pet may be suffering from a condition known as patella luxation. This occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal groove, causing pain, lameness, and long-term joint damage if left untreated.
At the Bone, Joint & Spine Clinic in Columbus, Dr. James Harrison, a board-certified veterinary orthopedic surgeon, offers expert diagnosis and treatment for patella luxation and other animal orthopedic injuries. If you’re searching for a trusted dog knee surgery specialist in Columbus or a compassionate orthopedic vet near me, Dr. Harrison and his team are here to help.
What Is Patella Luxation?
The patella, or kneecap, normally glides smoothly in a groove on the femur. In dogs with patella luxation, the kneecap slides to one side, leaving the joint unstable. This condition is most common in small-breed dogs, though it can affect larger breeds as well.
Patella luxation varies in severity:
- Mild cases may only cause occasional limping.
- Moderate to severe cases can result in frequent dislocations, pain, and abnormal limb posture.
- Over time, repeated dislocations may lead to arthritis and permanent joint damage.
While some mild cases can be managed conservatively, many dogs benefit from surgical correction performed by a skilled dog orthopedic surgeon.
Signs of Patella Luxation in Dogs
Pet owners often notice:
- Intermittent skipping or hopping on one leg
- Sudden limping that improves quickly
- Abnormal gait or posture
- Reluctance to jump or run
- Signs of pain during movement
If you see these symptoms, it’s best to consult with a Columbus orthopedic vet like Dr. Harrison for an accurate diagnosis.
Surgical Repair for Dislocated Kneecaps
When patella luxation causes pain or interferes with your dog’s mobility, surgery is often recommended. At the Bone, Joint & Spine Clinic, Dr. Harrison provides effective, straightforward procedures in orthopedic surgery for dogs in Columbus.
The goals of surgery are to:
- Realign the kneecap within its groove
- Stabilize surrounding ligaments
- Improve long-term comfort and function
As a veterinary surgical specialist, Dr. Harrison tailors the procedure to the severity of the luxation and the needs of each individual dog. Most pets experience significant improvement, returning to their playful, active selves after recovery.
Why Choose a Veterinary Surgical Specialist?
Choosing the right surgeon is just as important as the surgery itself. A board-certified veterinary orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Harrison has advanced training and extensive experience in canine orthopedic surgery and related procedures. This expertise ensures that pets receive the highest quality care for conditions like:
- Dog ligament surgery in Columbus
- Dog ACL tear treatment
- Canine hip dysplasia surgery
- Pet bone fracture repair
- Pet orthopedic surgery in Columbus for a variety of musculoskeletal problems
So, whether you’re searching online for emergency dog surgery near me or planning a consultation for ongoing mobility issues, you can trust that your pet will be in skilled hands.
Orthopedic Care for Cats, Too
While patella luxation is more common in dogs, cats can also experience kneecap dislocations. In these cases, a cat orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgery similar to canine procedures. Dr. Harrison provides orthopedic surgery for cats in Columbus, including: Cat broken leg surgery
- Cat fracture repair
- Feline orthopedic surgery for hip and knee injuries
- Feline patella luxation repair
Families often look for a cat orthopedic surgeon near me when emergencies occur, and the Bone, Joint & Spine Clinic offers the expertise needed to handle these delicate cases.
Comprehensive Orthopedic Services
In addition to patella luxation repair, Dr. Harrison offers a broad range of services in pet orthopedic surgery in Columbus, including:
- Orthopedic surgery for dogs in Columbus to address ligament, bone, and joint injuries
- Pet joint replacement surgery in Columbus for severe arthritis cases
- Feline orthopedic surgery for fractures or luxations
- General support for traumatic animal orthopedic injuries
This comprehensive approach makes the Bone, Joint & Spine Clinic a trusted choice for families across Columbus and beyond.
Compassionate Care, Lasting Relief
A diagnosis of patella luxation can feel overwhelming, but with the right treatment, most dogs go on to live happy, active lives. Surgery performed by a dog knee surgery specialist in Columbus not only restores mobility but also prevents future pain and long-term complications.
At the Bone, Joint & Spine Clinic, Dr. Harrison is committed to combining advanced skill with compassionate care. His mission is simple: to relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life for every pet he treats.
Contact the Bone, Joint & Spine Clinic
If your dog is showing signs of patella luxation - or your cat has suffered an orthopedic injury - don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to the best outcomes.
Call (614) 889-9555 or visit orthovetohio.com to schedule a consultation with Dr. James Harrison, your trusted Columbus orthopedic vet.
Whether you’re seeking orthopedic surgery for dogs in Columbus, orthopedic surgery for cats in Columbus, or specialized care for knee dislocations, you can rely on Dr. Harrison for expert solutions that truly work.
Call The Bone, Joint and Spine Clinic at (614) 889-9555 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Harrison. Early surgical intervention can make a significant difference in your pet’s joint health and quality of life. There is no charge for such evaluations and consultations.