Patellar luxation is a common orthopedic condition where the kneecap moves out of its normal position. It can be genetic or can occur due to trauma to the knee. The kneecap could shift towards the inner thigh (medial) or the outer thigh (lateral).
According to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, "Patellar luxation is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs, diagnosed in 7% of puppies. The condition affects primarily small dogs, especially breeds such as Boston and Yorkshire terriers, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and miniature poodles. The incidence in large breed dogs has been on the rise over the past ten years, and breeds such as Chinese Shar Pei, Flat-Coated Retrievers, Akitas, and Great Pyrenees are now considered predisposed to this disease. Patellar luxation affects both knees in half of all cases, potentially resulting in discomfort and loss of function."
Symptoms can vary widely and may range from non-clinical to your pet holding up the affected limb or walking with a skip in their gait. The severity of patellar luxation is measured on a grading system of grade I - IV, and recommended treatment considers the grade of the disease, longevity, clinical symptoms and owner considerations.
If your dog is exhibiting these signs, call us at 410-828-0911, opt. 3 in Hunt Valley or 410-224-0121, opt. 3 in Annapolis to schedule a consultation.
The hip joint normally functions as a ball and socket, wherein the head of the femur fits into the acetabulum, but in dogs with hip dysplasia (a skeletal disorder), the ball and socket do not fit properly.
Because the bones of the joint don't line up correctly, the joint cartilage is subjected to abnormal wear and tear. Overtime, this wear and tear can result in pain and arthritis. This disorder is most often hereditary, but can also be caused by traumatic injury.
Signs of hip dysplasia can include:
🐕 Weakness in the hind legs
🐕 Limping, wobbling
🐕 Walking with a “bunny-hop” gait
🐕 Reluctance to rise from a sitting or lying position
🐕 Lameness, which may be mild, moderate, or severe, and is worse after exercise
🐕 Loose joint, stiffness of the joint, and a grating sound during full extension and bending of the joint
Hip dysplasia is more commonly noted in breeds like English Bulldogs, German Shepherds, Golden Retreivers, Laborador Retrievers, Newfoundlands and other medium to large breeds.
If you or your primary care veterinarian suspect your dog may be at risk for this condition, schedule a consultation with a surgeon at one of our three locations. Radiographs and a physical exam will help determine a treatment plan, which could include medical management, physical rehabilitation or surgery.
Happy Holidays from everyone here at Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists! 🐾🌟🎁
🦃🐾 Thanksgiving Tales from Our Hospital Family 🐾🍁
As we gather 'round the table to give thanks, we're taking a moment to reflect on what makes our veterinary hospital family so special. We're thankful for our dedicated team of veterinarians, technicians, and support staff who work tirelessly to care for your beloved pets every day.
🐶🐱 Our patients hold a special place in our hearts, and we're grateful for the trust you place in us to keep them healthy and happy. Your furry companions brighten our days and inspire us to provide the best care possible.
🩺💖 And let's not forget the families who entrust us with the well-being of their pets. You are the reason we do what we do, and we're immensely grateful for the bonds we've formed with you and your four-legged family members.
🍂 This Thanksgiving, we're celebrating the love, compassion, and unity that make our hospital family so incredible. From all of us here, we wish you a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and furry companionship.
Share your Thanksgiving moments with us, and let's celebrate together! 📸
On this Veterans Day, we pause to pay tribute to the courageous humans and canines who have selflessly served our nation. Your sacrifice and unwavering dedication to protecting our freedoms inspire us every day.
At CVSS, we have the privilege of serving those who have served, and we're deeply grateful for the veterans and their loyal service and working animals who have become a part of our extended family.
To the veterans who have sacrificed so much, and to the four-legged heroes who stand by your side, thank you for your service and for entrusting us with the care of your cherished companions. 🐕🐈
Today, we celebrate and honor you. Happy Veterans Day!
Happy birthday Rascal!
Rascal is a 14-year-old Lhasa Apso who came to us in Annapolis late last year for the assessment and removal of a mass on his chest. Dr. Lis Moore, DACVS-SA evaluated Rascal and recommended a computed tomography (CT) scan, performed by Compass Veterinary Neurology & Imaging, along with aspirate samples to determine the type of growth causing the masses.
Initial cytology results indicated that the mass, located in the part of the chest that lies between the sternum and the spinal column, and between the lungs, were a type of cancerous tumor known as a thymoma. Rascal's owners elected to proceed with surgery to excise the mass for the best odds of preventing growth.
Dr. Moore performed a median sternotomy, a surgical procedure to open the chest, and removed the tumor. Rascal recovered in the hospital and was sent home with instructions to protect his wound with sterile gauze and to wear onesies. Recently, he celebrated his 14th birthday, complete with a party hat and a special treat (that he kindly shared with his sibling)!
Arlo, a 5-year-old male neutered Dachshund, came to see Dr. Mindy Wolfe in Annapolis following the onset of acute paresis in his hindlimbs. Simply put, Arlo couldn't walk. Dr. Wolfe performed a hemilaminectomy to decompress his spinal cord and, six weeks later, he was back to his normal, spunky self!
#veterinarysurgeon #veterinarysurgery #veterinarymedicine #veterinaryneurology #dachshund #dachshundsofinstagram #ivdddog
The Veterinary Technician Oath: “I solemnly dedicate myself to aiding animals and society by providing excellent care and services for animals, by alleviating animal suffering, and by promoting public health. I accept my obligations to practice my profession conscientiously and with sensitivity, adhering to the profession’s Code of Ethics, and furthering my knowledge and competence through a commitment to lifelong learning.”
#NationalVeterinaryTechnicianWeek
Do you remember our adventure kitty, Cleako, from a while back? A few days after being adopted, Cleako climbed a tree while exploring his new home and unfortunately fell from about 60 feet and dislocated his elbow. Board-certified surgeon Dr. Lis Moore in our Annapolis office repaired the elbow and Cleako has recovered wonderfully from surgery. Cleako's dad recently sent us a video and this amazing note:
"Nearly a year ago you saved my cat Cleako’s life. I am so grateful and amazed at how he has made a full recovery. A few days after I adopted him, he climbed 60-70 feet up a tree and fell, dislocating his elbow. Now he runs, climbs and plays like nothing ever happened. Thank you so much Dr. Moore and everyone who helped him. You performed a miracle!"
🚨 Stop what you’re doing right now and look at this kitten. 🚨
This extremely photogenic feline is Bob, a four month old female orange tabby.
Watch the video to hear her story.
Passive Range of Motion (PROM) of the stifle (knee) with the patient standing.
Passive Range of Motion (PROM) of the stifle (knee) for post operative knee surgery. This video shows the technique with the patient standing.
Passive Range of Motion (PROM) of the stifle (knee) with the patient lying down.
Passive Range of Motion (PROM) of the stifle (knee) for post operative knee surgery. This video shows the technique with the patient lying down.
