Clinical presentation and surgical repair of traumatic lateral patellar luxation associated with a complete tear of the vastus medialis muscle in a neonatal Cob foal

Abstract

SummaryPatellar luxation associated with traumatic injury is rare in the horse, and surgical correction has not been adequately described. This case report describes the clinical findings associated with traumatic lateral patellar luxation in a 2‐day‐old cob colt, and the technique used for successful surgical repair. A combination of computed tomography (CT), radiography and ultrasound was used to diagnose lateral luxation of the patella due to a complete tear of the vastus medialis muscle. All patellar ligaments were intact and no congenital abnormalities associated with the patellar luxation were present. Surgical correction of the patellar luxation was achieved using a lateral release of the patella performed by transection of the lateral femoropatellar ligament along with overlying fascia, and stabilisation of the patella by medial imbrication of the medial patellar ligament and parapatellar fascia to the distal tendon of the sartorius muscle. Radiographs at 18 weeks of age showed the patella in a normal position in a well‐developed trochlear groove. At 1 year of age the foal was walking and trotting sound, with normal range of motion of the affected stifle.