Objective

To use U-shaped Kirschner wires as artificial trochlear ridges in dogs suffering from patellar luxation.

Materials & Methods

Pilot study was done in 6 normal laboratory dogs. Medial trochlear ridge of each dog was removed to create a shallow sulcus and a short ridge as developed in animals with medial patellar luxation. The ridge was rebuilt by fixing a U-shaped K-wire on the trochlea where the normal ridge was previously removed. After 16 weeks observation revealing normal walking and weight bearing in all laboratory dogs, the U-shaped K-wires were applied on the short trochlear ridges of 11 stifles suffering from grade I or grade II patellar luxation.

Results

Good recovery was observed in 7 stifles. Animals were able to walk and bear weight normally at 8 postoperative weeks. The luxation recurred in 4 stifles.

Conclusion

The U-shaped K-wire can be used as an artificial trochlear ridge for patellar luxation repair in a dog.