Medial ridge elevation wedge trochleoplasty for medial patellar luxation: a clinical study in 5 dogs.

OBJECTIVE:
To develop a surgical technique to elevate the medial trochlear ridge for surgical correction of medial patellar luxation, and to evaluate clinical outcome.
STUDY DESIGN:
Case series.
ANIMALS:
Dogs (n = 5) with Grade 3 medial patellar luxation.
METHODS:
An asymmetrical wedge was removed from the trochlear groove, rotated 180°, and placed in the recess to create an elevated medial trochlear ridge. Postoperative radiography, CT scan, and subjective evaluation of clinical outcomes were performed.
RESULTS:
Surgical procedure and postoperative recovery were uncomplicated. There was no recurrence of spontaneous luxation and subjectively, gait improved in all dogs. Postoperative radiographs and CT images confirmed the elevated medial trochlear ridge, a significantly increased groove depth/patellar thickness ratio (P < .01), and seating of the patella in the trochlear groove.
CONCLUSION:
Elevating the medial trochlear ridge, instead of deepening the groove, can be considered a viable surgical technique to stabilize luxating patellae.