Surgical Management of Cruciate Ligament Rupture Combined with Patella Luxation

Cruciate ligament rupture (CR) predominantly affects the cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL). CR and patellar luxation (PL) are two common causes of dysfunction and lameness in dogs that are generally independent but can coexist. Stabilization of the CrCL-deficient stifle joint combined with PL is challenging because technical steps from both surgical procedures must be combined when joint stability is surgically re-established. It has been speculated that the increase in internal rotation resulting from partial CrCL fiber rupture may increase clinical signs in dogs with Grade 1 medial PL and no previous clinical signs. The diagnosis of combined CR and PL is made by palpation. Management options are either non-surgical or surgical. The management of medial PL and CR often requires fixation of the tibial tuberosity in a more lateral and distal position. The outcome of surgery for the management of CR and PL is good or excellent for the majority of patients.