Surgical Aftercare for Dogs with Patellar Luxation33

Patellar luxation is a common orthopedic condition in dogs, occurring when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal groove in the femur (thigh bone). This can cause pain, lameness, and difficulty walking. Surgery is often necessary to correct the condition and prevent further damage to the joint.

After patellar luxation surgery, your dog will require several weeks of rest and rehabilitation to fully recover. Here are some specific guidelines for postoperative care:

Medications:

Your veterinarian will prescribe pain medication and anti-inflammatory drugs to help your dog manage pain and swelling. Follow the veterinarian's instructions carefully and avoid giving your dog any over-the-counter medications without first consulting with your veterinarian.

Rest:

Restrict your dog's activity for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery. This means keeping them on a leash when outside and avoiding activities that could put stress on the knee joint, such as running, jumping, or climbing stairs.

Confinement:

Confine your dog to a small area, such as a crate or a small room, for the first few days after surgery. This will help them to stay calm and avoid putting pressure on the surgical incision. Gradually increase their activity level as they start to heal.

Ice:

Apply ice packs to the surgical incision for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This will help to reduce pain and swelling.

Physical Therapy:

Your veterinarian may recommend physical therapy to help your dog regain range of motion and strength in the knee joint. Physical therapy typically involves exercises such as gentle stretching, massage, and walking on a treadmill.

Rehabilitation:

Follow your veterinarian's instructions for gradually increasing your dog's activity level as they heal. Start with short, supervised walks and gradually increase the distance and duration of walks as your dog's strength and range of motion improve.

Follow-Up Care:

Bring your dog back to the veterinarian for regular follow-up appointments to monitor their progress and make sure that they are healing properly. Your veterinarian may also recommend additional x-rays or other diagnostic tests to ensure that the surgery was successful.

Potential Complications:

Although patellar luxation surgery is generally successful, there are some potential complications that can occur, including:
Infection
Graft failure
Stiffness
Lameness

If you notice any of these complications, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Preventing Patellar Luxation:

There are several things you can do to help prevent patellar luxation in your dog, including:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Avoiding activities that could put stress on the knee joint
Providing proper nutrition and exercise
Regularly checking your dog for any signs of lameness or discomfort

By following these tips, you can help your dog live a long and healthy life free from patellar luxation.

2024-10-30

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