Patellar groove replacement in patellar luxation with severe femoro-patellar osteoarthritis

To report a novel method of treating femoro-patellar instability in association with severe femoro-patellar osteoarthritis, by substituting the femoral trochlear with a patellar groove replacement prosthesis.

Retrospective case series.

Preoperative lameness was scored from 0-4, and radiographic studies including standard positions for patellar luxation were obtained for evidence of malalignment and femoro-patellar osteoarthritis. Cases with or without previous surgeries were included. The size of trochlear implant was determined by transparent templates and confirmed intra-operatively with trials. Radiographic images, together with clinical examinations, were reviewed immediately and at three months postoperatively and at longer term when available.

Thirty-five cases of patellar luxation ranging from grades II to IV were included. Eleven of these cases had prior surgical interventions which failed to stabilize the patella. Fourteen dogs required additional surgical procedures in conjunction with patellar groove replacement. Complications occurred in six patients, of which three required revision. Complete resolution of subjectively-assessed lameness was evident in 24/35 cases by the third month and in another seven of 35 patients on the longer term re-evaluations.

Use of a patellar groove replacement prosthesis has the potential to decrease the lameness associated with severe femoro-patellar arthritis, to improve patellar stability, and to correct the alignment of the extensor mechanism.