Poppie was presented to surgeons Dr Pierre Barreau and Dr Maria Bovis for luxating patella surgery.

The patella (kneecap) is a small bone that is positioned immediately above the tendon of insertion of the quadriceps muscle group onto the top of the tibia. The patella acts as a fulcrum during normal extension of the knee joint. It glides up and down within a groove that forms on the front of the knee joint. In some dogs, the patella luxates out of this normal groove.

The consequence of this luxation is an inability to properly extend the knee joint. This can therefore cause pain and discomfort when walking, as well as arthritis within the joint of left untreated.

There are many surgical techniques to resolve this condition. Normally we deepen the patellar groove, realign the quadriceps mechanism and tighten the soft tissues. The tibial tuberosity is secured in its new position with pins and sometimes wire, which hold it in place whilst it heals.

Dogs require strict rest for around 6-8 weeks following surgery. This involves short lead walks for toileting, and no running, jumping or climbing stairs.

Poppie is making a very good recovery!